What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing symptoms after using bismuth-containing medications, like certain stomach or ulcer treatments, and want to check whether the mineral has built up to unsafe levels in your blood. Too much bismuth can affect your kidneys and nervous system, so this test helps you catch a problem early. It's also useful if you take these medications regularly and want to make sure your levels stay safe.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the normal range clearly explained next to your value. If your level is elevated, simple next steps include stopping or reducing bismuth-containing products and retesting after a few weeks to see if levels drop. If your result is dangerously high or you have symptoms like confusion or trouble urinating, seek medical care right away. You can download the full lab report from your account anytime and use the trends feature to track your levels over time.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone who regularly uses bismuth-containing medications, such as certain anti-diarrheal or ulcer treatments, should consider this test. It's also a smart choice if you've noticed new symptoms like memory problems, confusion, or changes in urination after starting one of these products. People who take high doses or use these medications for a long stretch of time benefit most from checking their levels.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Symptoms like confusion, memory trouble, unsteady walking, or a dark line on your gums can signal too much bismuth in your body. Kidney-related signs, such as changes in how much you urinate or swelling in your legs, are also worth checking out. If you've been using bismuth-containing medication and notice any of these changes, this test can help clarify what's going on.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. You'll get a notification once they're posted to your account, where you can view the values along with an explanation of what's considered a normal range. No need to wait on hold or call anywhere—everything is available online as soon as it's ready.

How can I naturally support healthy kidney function?

Drinking plenty of water helps your kidneys flush out excess minerals like bismuth more efficiently. Cutting back or stopping use of bismuth-containing products, once you've confirmed it's safe to do so, is one of the most direct ways to lower your levels. Eating a balanced diet with less processed food also takes some of the workload off your kidneys. Retesting after making these changes helps you see if your levels are trending back to normal.

What does a high bismuth result mean?

A high result means you have more bismuth in your blood than is considered safe, usually from using bismuth-containing medications too often or in large amounts. This can sometimes affect your kidneys and nervous system if it stays elevated. The good news is that reducing or stopping use of the product is often enough to bring levels back down over time.

What causes high bismuth levels?

The most common cause is regular or excessive use of medications containing bismuth, such as certain stomach-soothing or anti-diarrheal products. Taking more than the recommended dose, using it for longer than directed, or having reduced kidney function that slows how quickly your body clears it can all contribute to a buildup. Older adults and people with existing kidney issues are more likely to see elevated levels.

How often should I retest?

If your first result comes back elevated, retesting after a few weeks of stopping or reducing bismuth use is a reasonable next step to confirm levels are dropping. If you use bismuth-containing products regularly for an ongoing condition, checking every few months can help you stay ahead of any buildup. Your trends dashboard makes it easy to compare results side by side over time.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

Start by reducing or stopping use of any bismuth-containing medication, after making sure it's safe to do so, and drink plenty of water to help your body clear the excess. Watch for symptoms like confusion, trouble walking, or changes in urination, and seek medical care right away if these appear. Retest in a few weeks to confirm your level is heading back toward normal.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Bismuth Blood Test - Check for Medication Toxicity

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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