Fibrinogen Blood Test: Assess Clotting Risk and Cardiovascular Inflammation
Fibrinogen is a protein produced by the liver that is essential for blood clot formation. It is also a powerful inflammatory biomarker associated with cardiovascular disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Along with other cardiac risk markers such as high-sensitivity CRP, fibrinogen helps determine a person's overall cardiovascular risk. Wellth offers fibrinogen testing through accredited Swedish laboratories as part of a comprehensive approach to heart health assessment.
Why Test Fibrinogen?
Testing fibrinogen helps identify cardiovascular and inflammatory risk factors early. It is particularly useful for individuals with a poor diet low in nutrient-rich foods, a personal or family history of cardiovascular disease, or those who want a comprehensive health check beyond standard lipid panels. Monitoring fibrinogen also allows you to track the impact of lifestyle changes and supplementation on your inflammatory status.
What Do High Fibrinogen Levels Mean?
Elevated fibrinogen is an acute phase reactant that rises during inflammatory conditions or tissue damage. Chronically elevated levels may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Causes include stress, acute infection, coronary heart disease, cancer, stroke, trauma, smoking, pregnancy, cold temperatures, obesity, and inflammatory disorders. Smokers with diabetes are at particularly high risk. Symptoms of high fibrinogen include swelling, redness, and leg pain (potentially indicating deep vein thrombosis), chest pain, shortness of breath, and increased stroke or heart attack risk.
What Do Low Fibrinogen Levels Mean?
Low fibrinogen (hypofibrinogenaemia) may impair the body's ability to form stable blood clots. It can result from acute trauma, malnutrition, blood loss, certain medications, or liver conditions. Symptoms include excessive bleeding, easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, prolonged bleeding from cuts, heavy menstrual periods, and in severe cases, spontaneous bleeding in joints or muscles.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Swelling, redness, and pain in the legs (possible DVT)
- Chest pain and shortness of breath
- Excessive bleeding or easy bruising (if low)
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Prolonged bleeding from minor wounds
- Heavy menstrual periods
Who Should Get Tested?
- People with a history of cardiovascular disease
- Individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions
- Smokers, especially those with diabetes
- Those experiencing unexplained bleeding or bruising
- Anyone wanting a comprehensive inflammatory risk assessment
How to Prepare for Your Test
No advance preparation is needed for this test. Do not exercise before the test, as this may affect results. Aim to take the test before 10:00 AM, as levels can vary throughout the day. Bring valid identification.
Order Your Blood Test
Test your Fibrinogen levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal fibrinogen level?
Can exercise lower fibrinogen?
Is fibrinogen elevated during pregnancy?
What other markers should I test alongside fibrinogen?
Reviewed by
Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
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The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.