Lactate
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
Lactate is produced when the body's tissues do not get enough oxygen. Measuring blood lactate helps judge how sick a patient is, especially in sepsis and shock.
Why is this test done?
- Assess severity of sepsis or shock
- Monitor critically ill patients
- Investigate unexplained acidosis
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Severe infection with low BP
- Fast breathing
- Confusion
- Cold, clammy skin
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
High lactate means tissues are short of oxygen or the body cannot clear lactate. Above 4 is a warning sign.
Common reasons- Sepsis or shock
- Severe dehydration or blood loss
- Heart failure
- Metformin build-up or liver failure
- Heavy exercise
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Rest before the sample and avoid clenching your fist during collection.
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in same day after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.