What you should know about Genetic Testing

Most genetically inherited disorders have no cure, but they have management and treatment options. Winter Park genetic testing offers an ideal option for finding out if you are affected by any genetic condition and may pass it on to your child. Genetic testing ensures you stay on top of your health and gives you the benefit of living a healthy life with relief from symptoms. The test can identify different genetic disorders and offer you a chance at a normal life.

What is Genetic Testing?

Genetic testing involves a series of tests to identify chromosomes and genes and then use the results to confirm a genetic illness. The test can also reveal if there are chances that a person can be a possible target of a genetic disorder. Different forms of genetic tests, including molecular tests, identify gene changes. The second form can be a chromosomal test which checks for changes in the length of chromosomes, including deletion, insertion, and translocation. The other forms ate gene expression and biochemical tests.

What are Examples of Genetic Disorders?

Different genetic disorders can pass on from one person to the next and may include the following.

Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell diseases affect red blood cells by altering their shape, limiting and slowing blood flow. Red blood cells transport oxygen to all body parts .thus if affected, there will be a limited flow of oxygen to the body. Treatment for sickle cell anemia involves medications that aim to eliminate pain and relieve symptoms while lowering the risk of further complications.

Cystic Fibrosis

The disease mostly affects the lungs and digestive system, among other body parts. Cystic fibrosis causes mucus, juices, and sweat to be thick and sticky, thus clogging up the ducts in the lungs. The symptoms include wheezing, persistent lung infections, stuffy nose, cough-producing sputum, and recurrent sinusitis. Cystic fibrosis has no cure, but your doctor may suggest treatment to relieve your symptoms.

What Happens During a Genetic Testing Procedure?

Your doctor will take a sample of your blood and sometimes saliva. The sample will go to the lab for DNA extraction, which your doctor will read to give an analysis. The first test usually analyses for mutations. Your family will also have the test to check for that mutation if your doctor finds the mutation.

What are the Advantages of Genetic Testing?

The results of a genetic test eliminate the uncertainty of a particular condition, thus giving you relief. Negative results of a genetic test mean that you can avoid certain screenings and checkups, saving you time. On the other hand, a positive result means you can get early management, prevention, and treatment of the condition. You can also use the results to decide if you want to have children and get tips on healthy ways to live.

Find out more about the benefits you stand to gain if you choose to go for genetic testing today at the Center for Reproductive Medicine. The facility will set up a testing plan for you to evaluate your genes and give you a way forward if you record a positive result. Request your appointment today when you visit the website.