A fasting blood test requires you to avoid eating or drinking anything for some time before your test. The amount of time to fast varies for different tests. It’s generally in the range of 8 to 12 ...

At-home tests for a urinary tract infection (UTI) are convenient because they are easily available online or in drugstores without a prescription. A UTI applies to a range of infections affecting the ...

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test detects genetic material from a pathogen or abnormal cell sample. Ways of collecting samples include a nasal swab, a saliva swab, or taking a sample of blood.

As the nation experiences what many experts believe is the second-largest wave of COVID infections since the pandemic started, many Americans will be checking to make sure they don’t have the ...

A false positive result is possible with a rapid COVID-19 test. It happens when a person does not have COVID-19 but still tests positive for the disease. People can use a rapid COVID-19 test at home ...

A lipase test is a blood test that measures the level of a digestive enzyme called lipase in your blood. It may also be referred to as a serum lipase or LPS. What is lipase? Your doctor might order a ...

If you live with performance anxiety, taking a test can be overwhelming. But test anxiety can be managed and these tips may help. Test anxiety is a common form of performance anxiety, which can create ...

Longevity isn't just about how long you live — it's also about staying healthy for as much of that time as possible. The "sit to stand" test can be a good way to figure out how healthy you are, and it ...

We regularly answer frequently asked questions about life during the coronavirus crisis. If you have a question you'd like us to consider for a future post, email us at goatsandsoda@npr.org with the ...

Shoulder problems are one of the most common complaints that doctors need to diagnose. Speed’s test and Yergason’s test are both ways for your doctor to physically examine the area around your ...