Common myths about diagnostic tests

Diagnostic tests are very useful as they help to identify major issues in the early stages. A diagnostic test helps your doctor analyse your condition better than before, and take you to the right path of recovery. However, it is quite surprising to know that many people are still afraid of taking diagnostic tests in this modern world that is ruled by technology and artificial intelligence. The major reason for the fear is the baseless myths that surround these tests.

Here, we attempt to bust some of the common myths about these tests, so that you get the real picture. Next time, when you have been advised for tests like a CT Scan in Bangalore, you won’t have any inhibitions before taking it.

Myth No.1 – Diagnostic tests are painful

Fact – Diagnostic tests are always painless, unless in certain rare procedures like an endoscope. These tests are not invasive, and most of them include blood tests, or other imaging tests that include different types of scans. A bone density test in Bangalore, for example is a painless process, and it is similar to an X-ray process. You only need to lie on your back, while an X-ray machine takes an image of a particular part of your body.

Myth No. 2 – Diagnostic tests can be considered as standalone trustworthy evidence

Fact – Many people believe that diagnostic tests are always accurate and that they provide an exact representation of your health condition. However, please note that the results of diagnostic tests have to be shown to the doctor compulsorily. A doctor’s analysis of the report is what makes the test valid, and not just the test paper itself! Sometimes, due to machine or human errors, a diagnostic test may display fluctuating results. A doctor will then ask you to retake the test. So, a diagnostic test result can never be treated as a reliable report unless it is supported by a doctor’s report.

Myth No. 3 – Healthy people don’t need diagnostic tests

Fact – One of the most common myths about diagnostic tests is that healthy people don’t need them. This is completely wrong! Diagnostic tests, when done proactively, can help identify health issues that you never knew existed. A Dexa Scan in Bangalore, for example, is a good proactive measure to test the thinning of bones in women over 65 years old. Even if aged women don’t suffer from osteoporosis, bone thinning, or a broken hip, it is good to get a Dexa scan in Bangalore or elsewhere once a year at least to know the status of their bone quality.  Doctors may recommend this or a bone density test in Bangalore, for aged women to rule out the chances of osteoporosis, or to practice the right treatment process  in future

Myth No. 4 – Diagnostic tests need not be repeated if the last test didn’t report any anomalies

Fact – Certain diagnostic tests need to be tested at regular intervals, even if the previous test didn’t report any fluctuations. Diabetic screening, Lipid Profiles, and the like should usually be taken twice a year to ensure that the vitals are at the right levels at all times. Diabetic screening, especially, should be done at regular intervals, for people who have been diagnosed with this condition. Even if the report turns out to be normal once, it is mandatory to repeat the test after 6 more months to monitor the progress and take the right medication for the same.

Bottom Line

Even though the field of medicine has become quite advanced today, one cannot deny the inherent fear of some people towards diagnostic tests and the myths surrounding these tests. With some of the common myths demystified in this article, we are sure that you will now approach tests like a bone density test in Bangalore, with more confidence and information than before.

 

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