Bloodwork Foundations
How I read bloodwork: patterns, trends over time, and context—not single numbers.
- Why “normal range” can still feel terrible (ranges are wide, methods differ)
- PRISM rule: “in range” ≠ “optimal for you”
- 3 ways I read bloodwork: patterns, time (trends), context
- CBC: blood cell “workers” (RBC/WBC/platelets)
- BMP/CMP: electrolytes + kidneys + liver + glucose (power/plumbing/filters)
- Inflammation markers: CRP/ESR are “smoke detectors”
Good to know
- Education only—I do not diagnose, treat, or give medical advice
- Use symptoms, meds, hydration, sleep, and illness history as context
PRISM is for learning, not diagnosing. It explains what tests measure and how clinicians reason — it never tells you what to conclude, and it doesn't replace your doctor.