Why is this procedure done?
A hair analysis test is used to learn more about your history of taking drugs. The drugs in your bloodstream bind to your hair follicles under the scalp. It may also be used to check the levels of some minerals. Within 5 to 10 days after taking a drug or being exposed to a mineral, it will most often be able to be seen in your hair. The hair sample may be able to tell: ‚
- If you have taken drugs in the last 3 to 4 months
- What kinds of drugs you took
- If you have been smoking cigarettes
- If you have been exposed to drugs or minerals in your environment
You may have a hair analysis test for legal reasons or before starting a job or school. ‚
What will the results be?
- A hair analysis test will help your doctor find out if you have taken certain drugs or been exposed to certain minerals.
- If the results are negative or normal, it means the drug or mineral being tested for is not present or is below the established cut off level.
- If the results are positive or not normal, it means the drug or mineral being tested for is present or is above the established cut off level.
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about: ‚
- All the drugs you are taking
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. The hair sample is cut close to your body. It may be taken from your scalp or other parts of your body. The lab will need about 90 to 120 strands of hair. The length of hair used is most often around 1 inch or 2.5 centimeters. The lab will test your hair. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
Ask your doctor when you will get the results. ‚
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
You will need to see your doctor to go over the results. ‚
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/drug-abuse/tab/test# ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚