BICARBONATE, SERUM

What this test checks

Measures bicarbonate, the main buffer keeping your blood neither too acidic nor too alkaline. Abnormal levels can mean kidney, lung, or metabolic problems.

Why do people get this test?

Used in evaluating breathing problems, kidney disease, and severe illness.

When you should consider this test

• Difficulty breathing
• Kidney disease follow-up
• Hospital-level evaluation

How to prepare

No fasting needed.