Do I really need to fast before getting tests for vitamin B12, vitamin D, CBC, and thyroid? I was told to get these because I'm dealing with hair fall, but I'm not sure if fasting is necessary. Can you clarify this for me?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Anshul Maheshwari

General Practitioner

MBBS
5+ Yrs

Consult Now

The needle-like stomach pain could be due to gas, acid reflux, food poisoning, or stress. To alleviate the discomfort:

Self-Care

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water.

Avoid triggers: Steer clear of spicy, fatty, or heavy foods.

Over-the-counter relief: Try antacids or acid reducers like Tums, Rolaids, or Zantac.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Severe pain: Unbearable or worsening pain.

Vomiting: Vomiting blood or severe vomiting.

Fever: High fever (over 101.5F).

Abdominal tenderness: Stomach tenderness to the touch.

Dr. Anshul Suggests...

Consult a Dermatologist

Find a Dermatologist

Answered 04/07/2025

Ask Apollo

AI powered Health Chatbot

Continue Chat

For your tests related to hair fall, here are some key points to know about fasting requirements:

Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D tests: Generally, you do not need to fast before these blood tests. They can be done at any time of the day.
Complete Blood Count (CBC): No fasting is required for a CBC test.
Thyroid function tests: These also do not require fasting.

It's always a good idea to follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider or the lab. If you are taking any medications or supplements, mention them before the test.

If you have any other concerns or symptoms, discussing them with your doctor will help tailor the testing and treatment plan effectively.

More Dermatology Health Queries

View all

I'm planning to attend an event soon and I'm thinking about using a cream called UltraBrite to reduce some marks and dark circles on my face. I'm only planning to use it for a week and then stop. Do you think that's okay? Could it have any side effects if I just use it for such a short time?

visit dermatologist for evaluation and appropriate management

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm really worried about my hair. For the past three years, the temples on my scalp have been losing hair really fast, and even the front center part seems to be thinning out more every day. It's frustrating because, on top of that, my hair is also turning white and falling out. Ive tried using minoxidil 5% solution and even took amla ras, but nothing seems to be working. What should I do next to save my hair?

Minoxidil 5. for local application ,once daily for 3-6 weeks is advised, tab follihair once ,daily for 3-6 weeks is advised to the patient.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm pretty sure I've got balanitis and I'm wondering if it will clear up on its own. What should I do to treat it? I'm dealing with a lot of inflammation and itching. Any tips or medicines you could recommend?

Balanitis can be uncomfortable, but it's treatable. Here's what you can do: *Self-Care* 1. *Keep the area clean*: Wash with mild soap and lukewarm water. 2. *Avoid irritants*: Steer clear of harsh soaps, bubble baths, and tight clothing. 3. *Pat dry*: Gently pat the area dry, rather than rubbing. *Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications* 1. *Hydrocortisone cream*: Reduces inflammation and itching. 2. *Antifungal creams*: If the cause is fungal (e.g., candida), use an antifungal cream like clotrimazole. *Prescription Medications (if necessary)* 1. *Antibiotics*: If the cause is bacterial. 2. *Steroid creams*:

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors