Genetic testing helps examine the body chemistry to determine health-related treatments that can improve symptoms of various conditions. This test helps urgent care physicians customize a patient's treatment based on how their genes may affect their response to medication. The results of this test can boost treatment success. Read on to learn more about genetic testing and how it can benefit your overall health.
Understanding genetic testing
Many people with various diseases and conditions have trouble finding the correct treatment. Today, hundreds of prescription drugs are available. Although medication can ease symptoms and boost one's quality of life, not everyone responds well to every drug. In addition, a patient's biochemistry may not react to the first medication they try.
Researchers estimate that about two-thirds of patients try multiple medications during their lifetime. Personalized genetic testing can help streamline this process. With the help of genetic testing, we can assess a patient's brain and body chemistry to determine which medications are most likely to be a good fit.
Benefits of genetic testing
Medications often take several weeks to deliver results. Thus, patients may wait for weeks only to discover that the medication does not work. In that case, patients have to start over with a new medication. This waiting period can be grueling for patients with painful or debilitating symptoms. Personalized genetic testing may allow patients to find relief sooner. However, keep in mind that testing does not guarantee treatment success.
While it is not a cure for health conditions or issues, genetic testing can provide insight into a person's body chemistry and how their body metabolizes drugs. These results show whether the patient is sensitive to different types of medication. As a result, testing can help patients to find more successful treatments and help prevent drug interactions. In addition, some patients who report unpleasant side effects after trying a new medication may reduce their risk of adverse side effects with genetic testing.
How genetic testing works
Genetic testing begins with a consultation. We will discuss the patient's medical history and treatment goals and discuss genetic testing's limitations. While genetic testing provides insight, it does not mean it will lead to immediate relief. Patients may continue treatment for some time and may need further medication or treatment. Therefore, people should have realistic expectations going into their genetic testing.
A technician will collect a blood sample on the day of the test. A genetic testing laboratory examines the sample and maps the data. The lab sends the results directly to the clinician for interpretation. We use a patient's treatment records to place their genetic results in the correct context. Genetics is a complex field, and the test results may seem confusing. Our team will explain a patient's test results to them thoroughly.
Once their results are ready, patients meet with one of our physicians for an in-depth discussion. We will explain how their test results will influence future treatment decisions. Depending on the results, we may recommend changing a patient's medication. Patients will have various treatment options regardless of the test results. Genetic testing results help guide patients toward the right treatment plan for their unique needs.
Get tested today
Genetic testing can be helpful for many patients. Our team can use your test results to determine which treatments are right for you, especially if medications have not worked for you in the past. Call our office at {{PHONE}} to learn more or schedule an appointment.
To learn more about our services, visit https://eldridgeclinic.com or call our Houston office at (281) 946-1351 to schedule an appointment.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Genetic Testing in Houston, TX.
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