Understanding Test Results: Blood Tests, Imaging, and What “Normal” Means
Receiving test results can be confusing and sometimes worrying, especially when results are labelled as “normal”, “borderline”, or “abnormal” without much explanation.
This page explains how GPs interpret blood tests and imaging results, what “normal” means in medical practice, and why results are always considered alongside symptoms rather than in isolation.
These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.
Why test results need interpretation
Medical tests are designed to support clinical decision-making, not to provide answers on their own. A result that looks abnormal on paper may be expected or insignificant in the right context, while a result within the normal range does not always rule out a problem.
GPs interpret results by considering:
- your symptoms and how they are changing
- your medical history and risk factors
- previous test results
- the reason the test was requested
This context is often more important than the number itself.does not mean a serious diagnosis is confirmed. It means further assessment is appropriate.
What “normal range” actually means
Normal ranges are based on measurements from large populations of generally healthy people. This means:
- some healthy people will naturally sit outside the range
- a value just outside the range is not always concerning
- small variations can occur due to timing, hydration, illness, or laboratory differences
Normal ranges are guides, not absolute cut-offs.
Blood test results
Blood tests are commonly used to look at things such as inflammation, infection, organ function, hormones, and nutritional markers.
A GP looks at:
- patterns across results rather than a single value
- whether results explain your symptoms
- whether repeat testing or monitoring is more appropriate than treatment
Borderline or mildly abnormal results are often managed with observation, lifestyle advice, or repeat testing rather than immediate intervention.
Imaging results such as X-rays, scans, and ultrasound
Imaging tests provide pictures of the body and are often used to look for structural causes of symptoms.
Imaging reports may include:
- incidental findings that are unrelated to symptoms
- age-related or benign changes
- findings that need correlation with symptoms
It is common for imaging reports to mention abnormalities that do not require treatment. A GP helps explain which findings matter and which do not.
Why results sometimes lead to more tests
Further tests do not always mean something serious has been found. Additional investigations may be arranged to:
- clarify an unclear result
- confirm or rule out a possible cause
- monitor changes over time
This stepwise approach reduces unnecessary treatment and improves accuracy.
When results are reassuring but symptoms persist
Occasionally, test results come back normal even though symptoms continue. This does not mean symptoms are imagined or unimportant.
In these cases, a GP may:
- review symptoms again
- consider alternative explanations
- reassess whether different tests are appropriate
- focus on symptom management and follow-up
Normal results are often part of the process rather than the end of it.
How a remote GP consultation can help
A remote GP consultation can be useful to:
- explain blood test or scan results in plain language
- put results into clinical context
- discuss whether further action is needed
- provide reassurance and safety netting
Understanding results clearly can reduce anxiety and help guide next steps.
When to book a remote GP consultation
Consider booking a GP consultation if:
- you do not understand your test results or report
- results have been marked as abnormal or borderline
- your symptoms persist despite normal results
- your symptoms worsen after testing
- you are unsure whether further tests or follow-up are needed
If symptoms become severe or urgent, seek urgent or emergency care rather than waiting for routine review.
Further Reading and Hub Links
Visit our Understanding Your Health hub or browse more health topics in the AccessGP Knowledge Base.
If you would like help interpreting test results, a GP can advise on the safest next step.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 5 February 2026