Lab tests give you concrete numbers about what’s happening inside your body. Family nurse practitioner Amanda Aldridge-Schamp, DNP, FNP-C, and the Altamont Family Health & Integrative Medicine team in King George, Virginia, order comprehensive lab work when needed. They coordinate with local labs to check everything from blood sugar to hormone levels to cholesterol. Then, they explain what all those numbers mean for your health. Schedule an appointment today to discuss lab testing or book online.
Lab testing examines your blood, urine, or other body samples to measure countless substances that affect your health. These tests can detect hormone imbalances, organ problems, infections, vitamin deficiencies, and early signs of chronic disease.
Amanda and her team use lab work to investigate symptoms, confirm diagnoses, and monitor treatment progress.
The specific tests Amanda and her team order depend entirely on your health concerns. Common tests include:
Amanda chooses tests based on what symptoms you’re experiencing and what questions need answering.
Once Amanda decides which tests you need, her office sends orders electronically to local laboratories. You receive clear instructions about any preparation needed — like fasting or medication adjustments. Most testing involves a blood draw that takes only a few minutes.
For specific tests, timing matters. Hormone levels fluctuate throughout the day or month, so some tests require scheduling. Amanda’s team coordinates this for you.
Amanda and her team review results that are sent directly to them. When you meet with her, she translates everything into plain English, pointing out which numbers to pay attention to.
Not every abnormal result signals trouble. Some variations happen naturally based on diet, exercise, or medications. Amanda distinguishes between normal fluctuations and concerning patterns.
Your body doesn’t always announce problems early. Many severe conditions show up first in blood work, not symptoms. Think about a condition like high blood pressure. You can feel fine for decades while it silently damages your organs. Without testing, these issues go unnoticed until complications appear.
Testing gives you time to respond. Finding the early stages of a chronic condition now means you can change your diet and avoid more invasive treatments later.
Get the answers you need about your health now. Contact Altamont Family Health & Integrative Medicine to arrange lab testing or book online.