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 ...

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.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

We independently review everything we recommend. We may make money from the links on our site. Learn more› By Ellen Lee Ellen Lee is a writer focused on parenting and health gear. She has tried dozens ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...