Have Your Hemoccult Test Performed at South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL

Hemoccult Tampa FLA fecal occult blood test, or hemoccult, can detect hidden (occult) blood in a stool sample, which may be a sign of an issue in the digestive tract. For instance, colon polyps have delicate blood vessels on their surface that can break and leak trace amounts of blood into the bowel. Sometimes, the amount of blood is so minimal that it cannot be seen with the naked eye.

A hemoccult test involves placing a small fecal sample on special paper that is coated with guaiac, a plant substance that changes color in response to the presence of blood. When the sample is placed on the paper, a reaction occurs within seconds. If blood is present, the paper will turn visibly blue.

Why is a hemoccult test performed?

A physician at South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, Florida, may recommend a hemoccult test if you have:

  • Abdominal pain
  • A change in bowel movements
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Anemia

What does a hemoccult test result mean?

While a fecal occult blood test can be a useful diagnostic tool, it’s important to understand that this test has some limitations. First, a hemoccult test is not 100 percent accurate. For instance, if colon polyps are present but they do not bleed, the test will produce a negative result. Second, if blood is present in stool, a hemoccult cannot determine the actual amount, nor can it identify the source. Therefore, if a hemoccult produces a positive result, a physician will typically order further testing, such as a colonoscopy, to find out exactly what’s going on.

If you need a hemoccult or other routine lab test, you can receive one without an appointment at South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, Florida. Our courteous medical staff is available during extended hours seven days a week to meet all of your non-emergency health care needs. We welcome you to stop by today.