Blood test home kit UK
General Health Blood Test Home Kit UK
A broad laboratory overview for people who want to look beyond one symptom and understand how selected thyroid, kidney, cholesterol, inflammatory, nutritional and morning cortisol markers fit together.
Persistent tiredness can have many explanations. This panel does not claim to find a single cause. It creates a structured health map that may reveal which area deserves a more focused conversation.
When the test may be useful
Begin with the question you are trying to answer
- Persistent tiredness or reduced stamina
- A wish to establish a broad personal baseline
- Reviewing cholesterol, thyroid and nutritional markers together
- Preparing for a GP or private medical appointment
Choose a clinical route instead when
- Chest pain, severe breathlessness, collapse or acute confusion
- A complete investigation of unexplained fatigue
- Changing prescribed medicine without clinical advice
The panel at a glance
How the included markers are organised
Colour coded, clinically cautious
What the result indicators mean
Colours help you scan the report. They do not decide the diagnosis. Reference intervals vary with the laboratory, method, age, sex, cycle stage and clinical circumstances.
Marker by marker
Indicators and what they may mean
Open a marker to view a concise explanation, the colour scale and the supplier derived interpretation bands.
Urea
Urea is a waste product formed when the body processes protein. It is produced through processes involving the liver and is removed from the blood mainly by the kidneys. It also contributes to the balance of fluids and electrolytes. Urea can be influenced by kidney function, liver function, hydration, diet, protein intake, medicines and other medical conditions. Drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet can support general health. People with a history of kidney or liver disease should discuss monitoring with their doctor.
A result in the lowest band can sometimes reflect severe liver dysfunction, poor nutrition, excess fluid intake or another medical condition. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Arrange a prompt medical review.Low urea is uncommon. Possible causes include liver disease, poor nutrition, low protein intake, excess hydration and other medical conditions. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, poor appetite and muscle weakness.
Review the finding with your GP.The laboratory has placed the value inside its stated reference interval. That is usually reassuring and is compatible with normal removal of waste from the blood.
Consider it alongside creatinine, hydration, symptoms and medical history. Speak with your doctor if concerns remain.A raised urea value can be seen with kidney disease, dehydration, increased protein breakdown, high protein intake, gastrointestinal bleeding or certain medicines. Symptoms may include tiredness, weakness and loss of appetite.
Review the finding with your GP as soon as possible.A result in the highest band can sometimes reflect significant dehydration or severely reduced kidney function. Severe cases may be accompanied by confusion, drowsiness or loss of consciousness.
Obtain urgent medical advice.Low density lipoprotein cholesterol
Low density lipoprotein cholesterol is commonly called LDL cholesterol. It carries cholesterol through the bloodstream. Raised levels may contribute to plaque within the arteries and increase cardiovascular risk. A balanced diet with limited saturated and trans fats, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can support healthier cholesterol levels. Some people may be prescribed medicines such as statins.
Very low LDL is uncommon. It may be associated with medicines, genetic factors, poor nutrition or an underlying medical condition.
Arrange an appointment with a healthcare professional.Low LDL may be influenced by diet, activity, genetics or medicines such as statins. It is generally considered favourable in relation to cardiovascular risk.
Consider the result alongside your complete cardiovascular risk profile.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and is generally reassuring.
Remember that cardiovascular risk also depends on blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, age, family history and other factors.Even a borderline high LDL result may contribute to cardiovascular risk over time. Diet, genetics, weight, activity and medical conditions may affect it.
Discuss the result with your doctor, who may recommend lifestyle changes or further testing.High LDL may be associated with diet, genetics, limited physical activity, excess weight, diabetes, thyroid conditions or other factors. Raised LDL can contribute to plaque within the arteries.
See your GP to review your overall cardiovascular risk.Very high LDL may substantially increase cardiovascular risk and may sometimes suggest an inherited cholesterol condition.
Arrange a prompt medical review and further assessment.Total cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance needed for cell structure, hormone production and the absorption of fats and fat soluble vitamins. Raised levels of some forms of cholesterol may contribute to plaque within the arteries and increase cardiovascular risk. Total cholesterol represents the combined amount of different cholesterol types in the blood. It should be considered with LDL, HDL, non HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and personal risk factors.
Very low total cholesterol is uncommon. It may be associated with poor nutrition, medicines, thyroid conditions, liver disease, chronic illness or inherited factors.
Discuss an unexpectedly very low result with a healthcare professional.Low total cholesterol may occur because of diet, poor nutrition, medicines or certain medical conditions.
Review the result with a clinician if it is unexpected or if symptoms are present.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory. That is usually reassuring, but it does not remove all cardiovascular risk.
Continue to consider blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, activity, weight and family history.Borderline high cholesterol may be influenced by genetics, diet, weight, limited activity and medical conditions.
Review the finding with your GP and consider appropriate lifestyle changes.High total cholesterol may increase cardiovascular risk and can be associated with genetics, diet and limited activity.
See your GP for a complete risk assessment and advice.Very high total cholesterol may substantially increase the risk of heart attack and stroke and may indicate an inherited cholesterol disorder.
Arrange a prompt medical review.Creatinine
Creatinine is a waste product produced through normal muscle activity and removed from the blood mainly by the kidneys. Levels can be affected by kidney function, hydration, muscle mass, exercise, muscle injury, diet, supplements and medicines. Drinking enough water and following a balanced diet can support general health. People with known kidney disease may require regular monitoring directed by a clinician.
Low creatinine is uncommon. Possible causes include low muscle mass, poor nutrition, pregnancy and certain medical conditions.
Discuss an unexpected low result with your GP.The laboratory has placed the value inside its stated reference interval. That is usually reassuring and is compatible with effective removal of creatinine from the blood.
Speak with your doctor if symptoms or concerns remain.A raised creatinine value can be seen with reduced kidney function, dehydration, muscle damage, intense exercise, increased muscle mass, supplements or certain medicines.
Review the finding with your GP as soon as possible.A very high result may suggest significant impairment of kidney function or another serious medical problem.
Seek urgent medical review.Non HDL cholesterol
Non HDL cholesterol is calculated by subtracting HDL cholesterol from total cholesterol. It represents several cholesterol particles that may contribute to plaque within the arteries. A balanced diet, regular activity, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking can support cardiovascular health.
A low result means that there is a lower amount of cholesterol associated with plaque formation. This is usually favourable in relation to heart attack and stroke risk.
Consider the result alongside your complete cardiovascular profile.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and is generally reassuring.
Continue to consider other risk factors such as blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and family history.A high result means that there is a greater amount of cholesterol that may contribute to plaque within the arteries and increase cardiovascular risk.
Review the finding with your GP.Albumin
Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. It helps maintain fluid balance and transports hormones, nutrients and medicines through the bloodstream. It also contributes to normal immune and tissue functions. Albumin can be influenced by liver function, kidney conditions, inflammation, hydration, nutrition and long term health conditions.
Very low albumin may be associated with significant liver disease, kidney protein loss, severe inflammation, poor nutrition or another serious condition. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, swelling and severe tiredness.
Seek urgent medical review.Low albumin may be associated with poor nutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, inflammation, poor absorption or other conditions. Symptoms may include tiredness, weakness and swelling.
Review the finding with your GP.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and indicates that there is sufficient albumin to support fluid balance and transport functions.
Consider it alongside total protein, kidney results, other liver related results and symptoms.High albumin is most commonly associated with dehydration. An unexpected result may also require consideration of medicines and other medical factors.
Discuss a persistent or unexpected result with your GP.A markedly high result may indicate significant dehydration or another serious issue affecting blood concentration. Confusion, drowsiness or severe illness requires urgent assessment.
Seek prompt medical advice.Total protein
Total protein measures the combined amount of albumin and other proteins in the blood. These proteins support growth, repair, muscles, organs, immunity, fluid balance and the transport of substances through the bloodstream. Eating a balanced diet that includes varied sources of protein supports general nutrition. Results may also be affected by hydration, liver function, kidney conditions, inflammation, infection and blood or immune disorders.
Low total protein may be associated with poor nutrition, poor absorption, liver disease, kidney protein loss or another condition. Symptoms may include tiredness, muscle weakness and swelling.
Discuss the result with your doctor.The result falls within the expected laboratory interval and is generally reassuring.
Consider it alongside albumin and other relevant results.High total protein may be associated with dehydration, infection, inflammation or certain blood and immune conditions, including multiple myeloma. Symptoms can vary and may include weakness or swelling.
Discuss the result with your doctor, who may arrange further tests.Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 supports the normal function of the brain and nervous system and the production of red blood cells. Food sources include meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Low levels may occur because of poor dietary intake, pernicious anaemia, reduced absorption, gastrointestinal conditions, surgery or medicines such as proton pump inhibitors. Tell your doctor about medicines and supplements you take.
A very low result may indicate severe deficiency. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, numbness, tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, confusion, drowsiness or seizures.
Seek prompt medical advice.Low vitamin B12 may be caused by pernicious anaemia, poor intake, absorption problems or medicines. Symptoms may include tiredness, weakness and tingling in the hands and feet.
See your GP to discuss the result and possible treatment.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and indicates that the measured vitamin B12 level is sufficient.
Speak with your doctor if symptoms remain despite a normal result.High vitamin B12 may reflect supplements, injections or treatment. It may also occur with liver disease, kidney disease or certain blood conditions.
Discuss an unexplained high result with your GP.A very high result requires clinical review, especially if you are not using supplements or receiving treatment. Severe tiredness, tingling, confusion or drowsiness should not be ignored.
Arrange prompt medical assessment.Cortisol
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It helps the body respond to physical and emotional stress and contributes to metabolism, blood pressure and immune activity. Cortisol changes naturally during the day and can be affected by sleep, illness, pregnancy, exercise, medicines and stress. Stress management may support general wellbeing, but one cortisol result cannot diagnose an adrenal condition.
Low cortisol is uncommon. It may be associated with adrenal or pituitary conditions, steroid medicine use or another medical factor. Symptoms may include tiredness, weakness, dizziness, nausea, weight loss or low blood pressure.
Review the finding with a doctor.The result falls within the stated morning reference interval. That is usually reassuring.
Remember that one result cannot exclude every adrenal or hormonal condition.High cortisol may be associated with physical or emotional stress, illness, sleep disruption, medicines or an endocrine condition such as Cushing syndrome. Long term elevation may be associated with weight gain, tiredness and high blood pressure.
See your GP to discuss a high or persistent result.Cholesterol to HDL ratio
The cholesterol to HDL ratio compares total cholesterol with HDL cholesterol. It provides additional information about the balance between total cholesterol and the cholesterol carried by HDL. A balanced diet, regular activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and limiting excess alcohol can support cardiovascular health. Medicines such as statins may be prescribed where appropriate.
A very low ratio is often favourable, but an unusual result should be considered with the individual total cholesterol and HDL values.
Discuss an unexpected result with a healthcare professional.A low ratio can be influenced by diet, activity, genetics or medicines such as statins. It is generally considered a favourable cardiovascular marker.
Consider the result as part of your wider cardiovascular profile.The result suggests a generally favourable balance between total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol.
Remember that it does not remove all cardiovascular risk.A high ratio may be associated with raised total cholesterol, low HDL, diet, limited activity, smoking, genetics or certain medical conditions.
See your GP to discuss the result.A very high ratio may indicate substantially increased cardiovascular risk.
Arrange prompt review of your complete lipid profile and personal risk factors.Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and supports normal bones, teeth, muscles and immune function. It is obtained through sunlight exposure, food and supplements. Low vitamin D is common in the United Kingdom, particularly during autumn and winter, in people with limited sunlight exposure and in people with darker skin, including many people with family origins in the Indian subcontinent.
A result in the lowest band can sometimes reflect significant deficiency and requires assessment of the cause and any related bone or muscle effects.
Review the finding with a doctor as soon as possible.Deficiency may contribute to muscle weakness, bone pain, low mood, osteoporosis and increased risk of falls or fractures.
Discuss treatment and further assessment with your doctor.A lower result can be associated with tiredness, headaches, muscle or bone discomfort, low mood or other symptoms. These symptoms are not specific to vitamin D.
Discuss the result with your doctor.The level is below the preferred range. Limited sunlight exposure, diet, absorption problems or increased requirements may contribute.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist about suitable dietary measures or supplementation.Significant deficiency has not been identified.
Persistent symptoms still require a complete medical assessment.The level falls within an acceptable interval and is sufficient for normal health functions.
Maintain it with appropriate diet, safe sunlight exposure and supplementation only where needed.The laboratory has placed the value inside its stated reference interval and is generally reassuring.
Continue sensible measures to maintain vitamin D.The level falls within the range regarded as favourable by the reporting laboratory.
Avoid unnecessary high dose supplementation unless advised by a healthcare professional.High vitamin D is most commonly associated with excessive supplementation. It may disturb calcium balance and affect muscles, bones, kidneys, the heart and brain.
Arrange a medical review.The result is within a range where vitamin D toxicity must be considered. Possible effects include nausea, weakness, thirst, frequent urination, confusion and kidney problems.
Obtain an immediate medical review.Thyroid stimulating hormone
Thyroid stimulating hormone, known as TSH, is produced by the pituitary gland. It signals the thyroid to produce thyroid hormones, which influence energy use, metabolism, temperature and many other body processes. A high TSH may be associated with an underactive thyroid, while a low TSH may be associated with an overactive thyroid. TSH must be considered alongside free T4, symptoms, medicines and medical history.
Very low TSH may be associated with thyroid overactivity, excessive thyroid hormone medicine, a thyroid condition, a pituitary condition or other causes. Symptoms may include anxiety, weight loss, palpitations and heat sensitivity.
Review the finding with a doctor as soon as possible.Low TSH may be associated with an overactive thyroid. Symptoms may include anxiety, weight loss, tremor, sweating and sensitivity to heat.
See your GP promptly.The laboratory has placed the value inside its stated reference interval and is generally reassuring.
Consider it with free T4 and speak with your GP if symptoms or concerns remain.High TSH may be associated with an underactive thyroid. Symptoms may include tiredness, weight gain, constipation, dry skin and sensitivity to cold.
See your GP to discuss the result.Very high TSH may indicate significant thyroid underactivity or, less commonly, a pituitary or other endocrine condition. Symptoms may include severe tiredness, weight gain and cold sensitivity.
Arrange prompt medical assessment.High density lipoprotein cholesterol
High density lipoprotein cholesterol is commonly called HDL cholesterol. It carries excess cholesterol from cells and tissues to the liver, where it can be processed and removed. HDL is often described as good cholesterol because higher levels are generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk. Diet, activity, smoking, alcohol, genetics and medicines can affect it.
Low HDL may be associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Possible influences include genetics, poor diet, limited activity, smoking and certain medicines such as anabolic steroids.
See your GP for advice based on your complete cardiovascular profile.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and is generally reassuring.
Consider it alongside LDL, non HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and your personal risk factors.A high HDL result is often considered favourable and may be influenced by genetics, diet and regular activity.
Very unusual values should still be interpreted with the complete lipid profile.Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in more than 300 processes within the body. It supports muscles, nerves, heart rhythm, bones, energy production, immune function and the formation of new cells. Magnesium can be influenced by diet, supplements, medicines, kidney function, gastrointestinal conditions and fluid loss.
Very low magnesium can affect the heart, muscles and nervous system.
Review the finding with a doctor immediately.Low magnesium may occur because of poor intake, gastrointestinal loss, certain medicines, diabetes or other conditions. Symptoms may include tiredness, cramps, weakness and balance problems.
Discuss the result with your doctor, who may recommend treatment.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and indicates that the measured magnesium level is within range.
Speak with your doctor if symptoms remain.High magnesium is uncommon. It may be caused by excessive supplements, medicines containing magnesium or reduced kidney function. Symptoms may include nausea, weakness and tiredness.
Discuss the result with your doctor.Very high magnesium can affect breathing, blood pressure and heart rhythm.
Seek immediate medical attention.C reactive protein
C reactive protein, known as CRP, is produced by the liver in response to inflammation, infection or tissue injury. It is a general marker and does not identify the exact location or cause. Corticosteroids, non steroidal anti inflammatory medicines and other treatments may affect CRP. Tell your doctor about medicines you take.
A low CRP is usually not concerning and generally indicates little measurable systemic inflammation at the time of testing. Nutrition and some treatments can also influence the result.
Discuss it with your GP if you have significant symptoms or other abnormal results.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and makes a significant inflammatory or infectious process less likely.
Remember that A value in range does not rule out every condition.High CRP may be caused by inflammation, infection, injury, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, heart disease or other conditions. It cannot identify the cause on its own.
Review the finding with a doctor.A very high result may indicate a serious infection or inflammatory condition, particularly when accompanied by acute illness.
Review the finding with a doctor immediately.Free thyroxine
Free thyroxine, known as free T4 or FT4, is one of the main hormones produced by the thyroid. It contributes to metabolism, energy use, temperature regulation and heart activity. Free T4 should be considered alongside TSH, symptoms, medicines, pregnancy, recent illness and previous thyroid results.
Very low free T4 may indicate significant thyroid hormone deficiency, reduced pituitary stimulation, a genetic condition or the effect of treatment for thyroid overactivity. Symptoms may include severe tiredness, weight gain and cold sensitivity.
Review the finding with a doctor urgently.Low free T4 may be associated with an underactive thyroid. Symptoms may include weight gain, tiredness, dry skin, constipation and feeling cold.
See your GP to discuss the result.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and is generally reassuring.
It must still be assessed alongside TSH and symptoms.High free T4 may be associated with an overactive thyroid or excessive thyroid hormone medicine. Symptoms may include weight loss, increased appetite, nervousness, tremor, sweating and palpitations.
See your GP as soon as possible.Very A raised free T4 value can be seen with severe thyroid overactivity, thyrotoxicosis or excessive thyroid hormone treatment. Symptoms may include palpitations, muscle weakness, agitation and difficulty sleeping.
Obtain urgent medical advice.Triglycerides
Triglycerides are fats that circulate in the blood and provide energy. Raised levels may contribute to cardiovascular risk. Triglycerides can be affected by recent food intake, alcohol, sugar and saturated fat intake, weight, activity, diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid function, genetics and medicines. A balanced diet, regular activity, a healthy weight and avoiding excess alcohol can help support healthier levels.
Very low triglycerides are uncommon and may be associated with a very low fat diet, poor nutrition, thyroid overactivity or an underlying condition.
Discuss an unexpected result with your doctor.Low triglycerides may be influenced by diet, activity or genetics and are often considered favourable for cardiovascular risk.
Consider the result alongside the complete lipid profile.The value sits inside the interval expected by the reporting laboratory and indicates that circulating triglycerides are within range.
Continue to consider your complete cardiovascular profile.Borderline high triglycerides may contribute to cardiovascular risk. A recent fatty meal, alcohol, diet, weight and metabolic health can affect the result.
See your GP if the result remains raised.High triglycerides may be associated with a diet high in sugar or saturated fat, limited activity, alcohol use, diabetes, kidney disease or certain medicines.
Review the finding with your GP.Very high triglycerides may substantially increase cardiovascular risk and, at particularly high levels, may increase the risk of pancreatitis.
Seek prompt medical advice.From order to report
How the home test pathway works
Choose with purpose
Review the exact markers, the collection method and the important limitations before ordering.
Receive and register
The kit is dispatched with the required equipment and registration instructions for the relevant laboratory pathway.
Prepare correctly
Follow the product specific timing, fasting, medicine and supplement guidance. Preparation affects interpretation.
Collect at home
Collect the finger prick capillary blood sample exactly as instructed. Insufficient or incorrectly labelled samples may not be suitable for analysis.
Return promptly
Use the supplied return materials and remain within the stated sample stability window.
View results securely
The report is delivered through the secure digital results pathway once laboratory processing and quality checks are complete.
Fact checked and medically reviewed
Clinical and editorial oversight
This page was prepared using the supplier specification and the UK medical, regulatory and professional sources listed below. Medical review is attributed to Dr Rimas Geiga, Veronika Matutyte, Dr Laura Geige. The wider clinic advisory team is shown in a compact format to preserve readability.
Dr Laura Geige Medical Director, Senior Practitioner and Skin Expert Page reviewer
Dr Giedre Narkiene Medical Doctor, Board Certified Dermatologist and Advisory Board Member Advisory contributor
Veronika Matutyte Medical Doctor, Healthcare Management Expert and Advisory Board Member Page reviewer
Dr Snieguole Geige Aesthetic Dentist, Medical Doctor and Advisory Board Member Advisory contributor
Dr Rimas Geiga Medical Doctor, Nutritional Sciences Adviser and Advisory Board Member Page reviewerIt’s Me & You Clinic, Kingston upon Thames
Private health information with a doctor led perspective
The clinic is approximately five minutes on foot from Kingston railway station. Siddeley House is close to the Rotunda, Bentall Centre, Canbury Gardens and the Thames, with practical connections from Norbiton, Surbiton and Richmond.
Find the clinic
Office 7, Siddeley House, 50 Canbury Park Road
Kingston upon Thames KT2 6LX
Questions, without the heavy boxes
Common questions
Is this the same as a full body health check?
No. It measures a defined group of seventeen biomarkers. It does not include every test that might be considered for persistent symptoms, and it cannot replace examination or a clinician selected investigation.
Does a normal report rule out the cause of tiredness?
No. Sleep conditions, mental health, infection, medication effects and several other causes may not be shown by this panel.
Why is morning cortisol included?
Cortisol follows a daily rhythm. Morning timing helps standardise the result, but one measurement does not diagnose an adrenal condition.
Do I need to fast?
Follow the exact instructions supplied with the kit. The requirements can depend on the laboratory pathway and the markers included.
What should I do with several borderline results?
Review the pattern rather than counting flags. A clinician can decide which result is meaningful, which should be repeated and which may be incidental.
UK medical and laboratory sources
Evidence used for this page
Home testing provides laboratory information, not a diagnosis. Do not delay urgent care while waiting for a kit or result. Call 999 for a medical emergency. Use NHS 111 or an appropriate clinician when symptoms are urgent but not immediately life threatening. Do not start, stop or alter prescribed treatment solely because of a home result.
