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Introduction of 24/7 Labs

Are you wondering who and what is 24/7 Labs? The technical definition would be that we are a healthcare lab testing facility that provides medical lab tests to both consumers and employers in a professional, convenient and cost-effective way. In a nutshell, we are a new and innovative health care service based in Tampa, Florida that gives people the opportunity to take control of their health. To show you how great 24/7 Labs are, take a second and think back over the past year. In the last year, how many times did you need to see your doctor but he wasn’t able to schedule you right away? How many times did you have to settle for an appointment a few weeks after you called? How many times in the past year did you have a basic medical need but we’re given the run around between hospitals and labs? How many times in the past year have you been asked for your insurance in regards to a medical need? With 24/7 Labs you don’t have to worry about any of those situations happening again. Unlike like those other labs, hospitals, and doctor’s offices; at 24/7 labs, you don’t need a doctor’s referral, prescription or insurance. Did we mention that all prices are completely affordable? In fact, 24/7 Labs are the most affordable labs in the area! We want to make sure your hard earned money stays in your pockets. We understand that life is chaotic and sometimes you need the lab to work around your schedule which is why we are available 24/7, anytime. If you call in you’ll be seen within the next hour or two of your call not two to three weeks later, and we always accept walk-ins.

We offer a variety of services which include the following: DNA Testing, STD Testing, Drug Testing, Cardiac Risk and Heart Health Panel, Diabetes Panel, Immunizations and Vaccination Panel, Menopause Screening Health Check, MMA Fighter Panel, Thyroid Panel, Cancer and Tumor Marker Panel, and many more; all of which are easily accessible via 24/7 Labs website at: https://www.24-7labs.com/. Through the website, you can conveniently schedule, and pay for any service you may need. All 24/7 Lab testing is confidential and performed through either the blood or urine, which eliminates the use of pelvic exams, painful swabs, or other embarrassing measures. We pride ourselves on being able to deliver the same high-quality tests as your doctor or any hospital would order. We use only federal and state certified clinics to process all lab tests, and our staff is fully trained, experienced and certified to provide you with the best service possible. We have two locations in Tampa, Florida but are eager to spreading our business. Our main office is located at 6107 Memorial Hwy, Tampa Florida. Our second office location is at 8834 N 56th St., Temple Terrace, Florida. We look forward to seeing you at one of our locations. Remember, you don’t need insurance or a doctor’s prescription, there are no hidden fees, or long waits, and we’re available 24/7, anytime!

The Who, What, & Where of Thyroid

Do you know how important the thyroid gland is to the body? Do you know what thyroid problems include? You’ve probably heard thyroid mentioned here and there but the thyroid gland plays a major role in the health of the body. The thyroid gland is an organ about two inches long located at the base of the neck that releases hormones which help regulate metabolism. Metabolism is the way in which the body uses energy. The thyroid gland releases hormones that help regulate very important body functions such as: breathing, heart rate, central and peripheral nervous system, body weight, muscle strength, menstrual cycles, body temperature, cholesterol levels and more.

The thyroid gland is a part of the endocrine system. According to Live Science, the endocrine system is the collection of glands that produce hormones which regulate metabolism, growth, and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood. The thyroid gland uses iodine to produce two main hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). T3 and T4 are maintained by two glands in the brain known as the hypothalamus and pituitary. T3 and T4 need to be balanced so when their levels are too high or too low it can have serious effects on the body. Too much T3 and T4 (hyperthyroidism) can cause symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, nervousness, hyperactivity, sweating, hand trembling, hair loss, missed of light menstrual periods. Too little T3 and T4 (hypothyroidism) can cause symptoms such as trouble sleeping, tiredness, difficulty concentrating, dry skin and hair, depressions, sensitivity to cold temperature, frequent and heavy periods, joint and muscle pain.

Many symptoms involving thyroid imbalances are vague and can generally be passed off as something else. To help detect thyroid problems a few types of tests are used which include: Measurement of Serum Thyroid Hormones: T4 by RIA, Measurement of Serum Thyroid Hormones: T3 by RIA, Thyroid Binding Globulin, Measurement of Pituitary Production of TSH, TRH Test, Iodine Uptake Scan, Thyroid Scan, Thyroid Ultrasound, Thyroid Antibodies, Thyroid Needle Biopsy. While most doctors only use two tests for screening thyroid problems; 24/7 Labs provides five lab tests: T3 Free, T3 Uptake, T4 Free, T4 Uptake, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). Through research 24/7 Labs has concluded these five lab tests to be the best in determining thyroid problems. These tests measure the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood. If you feel you may be having some thyroid problems, try these few tips to help improve your thyroid function and if there is no improvement come see us at 24/7Labs.

• Get eight to ten hours of sleep a night
• Eliminate all fluoride, chlorine, and bromide
• Eliminate stress (meditation, yoga)
• Change your diet
• Introduce a multivitamin into your daily routine
• Take a thyroid supplement
• Ensure your digestive system is functioning properly

Remember, we have two locations in Tampa, Florida: our main office is located at 6107 Memorial Hwy, Tampa Florida, and our second office location is at 8834 N 56th St., Temple Terrace, Florida. You will never need insurance or a doctor’s prescription, there are no hidden fees, long waits, we accept walk-ins, and results are provided within one to two business days. We look forward to seeing you!

What’s Up with STDs

The Real Deal

STDs are out there and they are the real deal Holyfield! At some point or another we’ve all heard about them and how detrimental they can be. To be frank nothing has changed in that aspect. It is important to protect ourselves and the absolute best way is to remain abstinent. In all honesty who is remaining abstinent? There are some great people out there who are refraining from sex, but when we look at the statistics it shows there are a lot of people who are indulging just as well. If you are a consenting adult, then who can stop you? The important thing to remember is protection. If you’re not going the abstinent route then the next best thing is condoms, dental dams and other practices that involve safe sex. How safe can sex be? According to most condom commercials about 99%.

All Sex Runs the Risk of STD Infection

For the love of football or your favorite sport (it’s football season), please do not feed into the belief that you can only catch an STD if you have a certain type of sex. STDs can be transmitted through oral, anal, and vaginal sex. A major key is to know who you are having sex with and before engaging in any sexual acts; it may be in each of your best interest to visit a clinic and get tested together. If you cannot have an open discussion with your partner it might be best to hold off on the sex. At the end of the day, it is your health that is up for discussion.

Silent but Deadly

Most STDs have silent symptoms meaning many people do not know they are infected. In fact, the most common STD among teenagers; Chlamydia, rarely has symptoms. No symptoms mean that you run the risk of possibly infecting others. The fact of the matter is that most STDs are common and can be cured with a few antibiotics. Do not underestimate the seriousness of STDs, they can be life altering and without proper treatment they can cause immense damage. When it comes to your sexual health, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you are sexually active get tested regularly. It’s imperative you know your status.

Getting Tested

After all the discussion of STDs you’re probably wondering what does an STD test involve? Most involve you simply peeing in a cup but others may require additional testing such as genital fluid swabs, blood drawing or a doctor taking a peek at your genitals. However, with 24/7Labs we require you to pee in a cup but with some testing a blood drawing is needed. Most STD testing can be done within 15-20 minutes and results come back within 3-4 days. 24/7Labs ensures that control of your health is in your hands. There’s no need to be fearful of getting tested. Fear not knowing your status and infecting others.

Most Common STDs

• HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Herpes
• Trichomoniasis
• HIV/AIDS

Understanding Breast Cancer

To put it literally, Breast Cancer refers to the melanoma that originates from the breast cells or breast tissues. Even though this breast cancer can be developed for both men and women, it is far more common in women. Along with that line, in the United States, a huge number of women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. However, the fatality rate of breast cancer diminished exponentially thanks to the awareness of early screening and the technological advancement of the treatment procedure.Symptoms

• A somewhat rubbery hard lump or clot that seems unusual in contrast to the adjacent cells tissues
• Any kind of depression or concavity of the breast or the nipple
• Sudden breast-skin or nipple-skin nipple flaking off
• Breast skin becoming red
• Change in size and shape of the breast
• Rash around the nipple

Causes An exact cause of the breast cancer is not all clear to the doctors. However, abnormal growth of the breast cells and some hormonal and environmental issues in addition to certain lifestyle factors may increase the risk of breast cancer. Diagnosis Physical Breast Exam Doctor will look for any lump or abnormalities on your breast through a physical examination. Mammogram A mammogram is the next step to physical examination. It’s an X-Ray of the breast that is frequently used to diagnose the breast cancer. A diagnostic mammogram is followed in the case of something atypical.  Ultrasound An Ultrasound is employed to get the inner images so as to determine the rigidity of the breast lump if there is any.  Biopsy If any abnormality or a lump is found, removing a sample of the breast cells and sending it for analysis in order to verify the type and the grade of the breast cancer is typically termed as a biopsy.  MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) An MRI is used in order to create definite pictures of the interiors of the breast with the help of injected dye.  Some Facts on Breast Cancer

•  Breast cancer is more regular in the case of elderly women.
•  Interestingly, breast cancers are far more common in developed countries rather than developing or underdeveloped ones.
•  A family history of breast cancer can increase your risk of breast cancer.
•  Obesity and high alcohol consumption enhance the risk breast cancer.
•  In addition, women who have never been pregnant, giving birth to their first child at an older age, menopause at an older age, the period before the age of twelve are at higher risk of breast cancer.

Treatment A team of specialists will determine the type, stage, and the grade of the breast cancer and will decide on the best alternative for the treatment. And the treatments often include Biological Therapy, Radiation Therapy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, and Surgery. Breast cancer is now no longer an epidemic like it used to be. It can be cured easily with an early diagnosis and an unwavering determination.In the regard, a healthy lifestyle is also important to keep the breast cancer at bay.

The Ugly Truth about Heart Disease

To put it bluntly, the Heart is one of the most important muscles in our body. It pumps blood to the entire body. However, a problem arises when it can’t work properly. Heart Disease is the medical condition/s where the basic functionality of heart gets affected. It is one of the leading causes of death for men and women in the United States. Heart diseases fall under the broad spectrum of diseases that cover both heart and blood vessel related defects.

Heart disease includes a series of critical conditions. For instance, ‘Coronary Artery Disease’ – it occurs when the blood supply gets disturbed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. These plaques are the effect of the buildup of materials like Cholesterol, fat and other identical substances. With the troubled blood flow, the heart muscles can’t circulate enough blood or oxygen the body needs. The severe condition might lead to Angina (Chest Pain) or even a heart attack.

‘Arrhythmia’ is another very common heart disease. It is related to abnormal heart rhythm. In normal cases, the heart works in a normal and regular sequence of electrical signals. Arrhythmia occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or erratically in accordance with irregular electric signals. The heart can’t pump blood effectively if it doesn’t beat correctly. People often report of having a fluttering feeling or palpitation in their chest. Sometimes, heart suddenly stops working due to arrhythmias. This well-known phenomenon is known as Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

Congenital Heart Diseases, more often than not, refers to the heart defects one’s born with. The common scenarios behind the defects may include the internal walls of the heart, the valves, and the arteries.

Cardiomyopathy occurs when the heart muscle thickens and hamper the regular blood flow of the heart. Other than these most common diseases, vascular heart attack due to narrowed or blocked blood vessels.

 

Common Symptoms

The most common symptom is Angina or Chest Pain.

The patients might feel pressure in shoulders, necks, arms, jaw or back in addition to the squeezing pain in the chest.

Shortness of Breath

Fatigue

Palpitations

Fainting

 

C-Reactive Protein Test (CRP)

What is CRP?

Literally, CRP is a substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation. Moreover, it can be considered as a markup for the level of inflammation in the body. More often than not, the level of CRP is measured by blood test.

What does a CRP indicate?

The high level of CRP indicates the existence of artery inflammation in the heart. And if someone is diagnosed with high CRP level, it signifies that s/he is at a greater risk of heart attack. On the other hand, other inflammatory circumstances can also elevate the CRP level.

Why do you need a CRP test?

CRP test helps the doctors to determine the risk involved for heart disease or stroke. On the other hand, according to a study, it is found that CRP test happens to be more effective compared to the cholesterol test to detect coronary defects in women. There are certain medical situations that can elevate the level of CRP. They are Cancer, Arthritis, Pregnancy, Lupus, and pneumonia.

What happens when someone has a high CRP?

From different medical studies, it’s been found that high CRP is associated with different conditions like potential risk of heart attack, coronary issues, and type-2 diabetes.

Is the CRP test for you?

On the occasion that you are already diagnosed with heart disease risk factors, the CRP test can help you monitoring your health status better. In addition to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking, people with a family history of heart disease are at a greater risk of heart disease and might go for CRP screening with the apt risk factors.

What does test result mean?

Lower than 1 mg/L specifies the lowest risk of cardiovascular disease while 1 to 2.9 mg/L is the benchmark of the intermediate risk. A result more than 3 mg/L will fling the patient at a high risk for cardiovascular disease. Finally, a result more than 10 mg/L will require further tests and inquiries for this kind of rigorous inflammation.

 

Troponin

 

What is Troponin?

Troponin is a protein that mixes with the blood at some point of heart attack. The plaque induced blood cot in the coronary arteries usually causes a heart attack. So, detecting the troponin in the blood allows the doctor to take steps immediately.

Troponin Test

A troponin test is used to measure the level of either troponin T or troponin I proteins in the blood. These proteins are usually released at the time of heart attack. The amount of troponin will be higher in the blood as the condition of the heart gets worsened.

Why do you need a Troponin Test?

For the most part, the troponin test is performed to check whether the heart attack has already transpired. The doctor might repeat the test based on the signs and symptoms of a heart attack.

What does the test result indicate?

If the protein cannot be detected in the blood, then it will be flagged as a normal test. On the contrary, if the report comes positive, then the patient will need to remain in the hospital for further diagnosis.

For more information about heart disease, risks, and prevention visit these sites: https://www.drugs.com/news/many-Americans-have-blood-pressure-doctors-warn-64399.html
https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/know-your-risk/know-your-numbers

The Over 40 Lab Testing Cheat Sheet

Regardless of your physical condition, you should consider visiting labs in order to screen medical issues or assess for future and potential problems. All of these screenings and assessing will encourage and help with a healthy standard of living. For the people over 40, in addition to the basic wellness, some important tests are needed to be done on a regular basis. Face it, we all want to live as long as possible and by being proactive and taking control of your health you can increase those odds. Here’s a few to get you started.

BLOOD PRESSURE

Lab testing for a blood pressure check should be done at least once a year. If the number crosses over 140 and 90 from the benchmark of 120 and 80 for systolic and diastolic number, you have to visit your doctor and solve the issues.

DIABETES

For any adult over age 40, Diabetes lab testing should be done every 2 years. Moreover, people with obesity and high blood pressure in addition to people with family history should check out the Diabetes level every once a year.

CHOLESTEROL

40 is the ideal age to start lab testing for high cholesterol regularly. However, if you already have a high cholesterol level over and above other concerns like heart or kidneys, then you might need to get the cholesterol level more frequently.

PHYSICAL

In addition to the blood pressure and cholesterol level, you should check out your Body Mass Index (BMI), Depression, Alcohol and Tobacco Use, and finally, Diet and Exercise. Lab testing for BMI can be done to give you an overall assessment of where you stand.

COLON CANCER

Even though colon cancer is recommended to test after age 50, you can never be too careful. So, you can start with a blood test every year and start your colonoscopy from the 50 years period. We recommend you start lab testing for colon cancer earlier due to prevention being key in fighting most cancer.

BREAST

At the outset, women need to perform a self-exam at least once in every month. It is recommended for women over age 50 to go for a mammogram once a year. However, women aged 40 – 49 may have a mammography every once in two years. Granted mammograms can be performed through lab testing and results can be sent to your primary care physician.

PELVIC

It is common to have pelvic exams for any active lady. Lab testing for Chlamydia and gonorrhea, are recommended if you are sexually active. Also, to aid in prevention of certain cancers such as ovarian cancer.

Even if you play it safe, things can still happen…

It was exactly September last year, few weeks after my graduation from college. I met someone through the craigslist ‘’ men seeking women” section out of boredom with my lackluster sex life and an urge to do something exciting and erotic. We concluded to meet at one of the clubs in town. We had a brief one-night stand, with protections, and nothing interesting came off that night. The sex was mediocre. I went home and we did not speak again.

A week later, I came down with a horrendous flu/ fever that reached 101.7 degrees and stayed there for 5 days. I also began to feel some painless sores in my genitals and mouth. I immediately went to a pharmacy where I was misdiagnosed with strep throat and sent home with some antibiotics and painkillers. The flu and fever cleared itself after some days, and I assumed that was the end of it, not until I begin to feel body rashes, and my nervous system seemed not to be performing effectively anymore.

Although, the fact that I wore protection the other night did not really allow me to give too much concern about contracting any infections yet, I couldn’t shake a bad feeling that I had contracted something from my shitty one night stand, which I was unfortunate enough to have that happen.

A few days later, I couldn’t hold the guilt to myself anymore, so I had to disclose to one of my friends about what is happening to me. I was not surprised when he came to a conclusion that I had unfortunately contracted ‘’S.T.D” now known as sexually transmitted infection. But he seems to be totally unworried, so I’m taking that as good news. Additionally, he is also happy about the fact that I caught this extremely early on in its progression. Also, good news. Because it is a type of infection that could be present in the body and not show any major signs or symptoms.

While we were talking in the living room, suddenly I heard a voice from nowhere, ”how could you allow such thing to happen to you’, exclaimed Jane, my friend’s senior sister. She was so furious and angry, but for the plain love, and moreover, she likes me as a brother, she let by guns be by guns, as she searched for possible solutions. Immediately, she scrolls through her phone book and contacted one of her friends in the neighborhood, and fortunately, solutions came through. The right prescriptions for the drugs were made, I wrote them down on some paper, and went to the nearest pharmacy to get my drugs.

A couple of days after I begin to administer my drugs, I started noticing positive changes and assumed my STD was going away for good. Talking about this is cathartic though, and I would love all my readers to learn from my unfortunate mistake (condoms don’t protect against everything). I am okay now, feeling good and in a sound health after I got a true STD test. The tech there told me I was one of the lucky ones, due to treating myself and having good friends, I suppose. Thank God for that, right!