What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing symptoms after exposure to cobalt, such as from metal-on-metal joint implants, industrial work, or environmental sources. It helps if you have concerns about heavy metal buildup in your body from your job or a medical device. People with unexplained fatigue, joint pain near an implant, or known workplace exposure often use this test to check their cobalt levels.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the normal range explained so you can see exactly where your cobalt level falls. If your level is elevated, next steps usually include reducing further exposure, reviewing any metal implants, and retesting after a few months to track changes. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and the trends feature lets you compare results over time to see if levels are rising or falling. If a result is dangerously high, seek medical care right away.

Who should consider this test?

People with metal joint implants, workers in cobalt-related industries like mining or manufacturing, and anyone with known or suspected cobalt exposure should consider this test. It's also useful for people experiencing symptoms like joint pain, skin irritation, heart issues, or nerve problems with no clear cause. Testing gives you a clear number to track instead of guessing about exposure.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Watch for joint pain or swelling near a metal implant, unexplained fatigue, skin rashes, ringing in the ears, vision or hearing changes, or heart palpitations. Nerve symptoms like numbness or tingling can also be linked to cobalt buildup. If you work around cobalt dust or fumes and notice cough or breathing issues, that's another reason to check your levels.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll get a notification once your report is available in your account. This timeframe can vary slightly depending on lab volume, so check your account for the most current status.

How can I naturally support healthy cobalt levels?

The most effective step is reducing ongoing exposure, such as improving ventilation at work, using protective equipment, or discussing implant concerns if applicable. Staying well hydrated helps your kidneys filter out excess metals more efficiently. Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, antioxidants, and clean water supports your body's natural detox processes, though there's no supplement proven to directly remove cobalt.

What is cobalt and why does it matter?

Cobalt is a metal used in industrial processes, batteries, and some medical implants like hip and knee replacements. Your body needs a tiny trace amount for normal function, but too much can build up and cause damage to your heart, nerves, thyroid, and joints. Testing your cobalt level helps catch a problem early before it leads to bigger health issues.

What does a high cobalt result mean?

A high result means you've likely had more cobalt exposure than your body can safely clear, which over time can affect your heart, thyroid, hearing, or nervous system. This is often seen with worn metal implants or ongoing workplace exposure. The next step is identifying and reducing the source of exposure and retesting to confirm the level is coming down.

What causes high cobalt levels?

Common causes include a failing or worn metal-on-metal joint implant, working in industries like mining, welding, or battery manufacturing, or living near industrial sites with cobalt emissions. Certain supplements or contaminated water sources can also contribute in rare cases. Identifying your specific exposure source is key to bringing levels back down.

How often should I retest?

If you have a metal implant or known workplace exposure, retesting every 3 to 6 months is a reasonable starting point until levels stabilize. Once your levels are stable and low, annual testing is often enough. Your first results and any symptoms you're having can help guide how often you should check again.

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.

Cobalt Blood Test - Metal Implant & Exposure Check

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

[email protected]