Tests and scans

Diagnostic tests and scans are vitally important to finding the best treatment for your health concerns. Here, our experts demystify the various tests you may be referred for.

High-tech machines like MRI and CT scanners are sometimes intimidating but diagnostic imaging can be an essential step to good health. Adele Trueman, Lead Radiographer at Nuffield Health Manchester Diagnostic Suite, takes a closer look.

Updated: Thursday 10 September 2026

Published: Friday 15 January 2016

It can be difficult to spot the signs of disease or infection after travel. Here’s how a quick blood test can help.

Updated: Thursday 10 September 2026

Published: Wednesday 19 July 2017

Breast screening is the most effective way of detecting breast cancer early, yet many women are worried about the process. Here, real women who’ve had mammograms share their tips and experience.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Monday 4 September 2017

From early on, women are taught to check for lumps in their breasts. But lumps aren’t the only sign you should see a specialist. Here are four more.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Friday 17 June 2016

Mike is no stranger to angiograms. He's back for a second one, after the symptoms of his angina mysteriously returned following six months of relief. Dr Suneel Talwar, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital, takes a look inside.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Friday 5 February 2016

Osteoporosis is often called the 'silent disease' and usually has no symptoms - that is, until you break or fracture a bone. Bone density scanning can calculate your risk in minutes. Here, we follow patient Sally Wood as she takes the test.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Monday 19 October 2015

After years of debate, the jury’s still out on whether the prostate specific-antigen (PSA) test does more harm than good for men. Dr Davina Deniszczyc, Medical Executive Director of Nuffield Health, looks at the pros and cons.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Wednesday 6 April 2016

Too embarrassed to get your prostate checked? Unsure of what to expect from a rectal examination? Mr Gareth Brown, Consultant Urological Surgeon at Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospital, explains why it's well worth a few awkward moments.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Monday 23 November 2015

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans can be a little daunting, especially if you’re claustrophobic. Here, real patients who’ve had an MRI scan share their tips and experience.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Monday 4 September 2017

Having a mammogram doesn't have to be a daunting experience. Nuffield Health's Professional Head of Mammography and Laser Safety, Sue Oliver, walks us through the exam.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Thursday 14 January 2016

Blood tests are a great way to unearth the root cause of problems and symptoms that been bothering you. Keep reading to find out what a blood test can do and how to book one yourself.

Updated: Friday 4 September 2026

Published: Tuesday 4 July 2017

Does the sight of blood make the room spin? Here's how to fight back against blood-injury-needle phobia and pump up your resistance to fainting.

Updated: Thursday 3 September 2026

Published: Thursday 9 June 2016

MRI scanners give medical professionals a detailed image of your body's internal structure. Learning more about how an MRI scan works and what to expect on the day can help put your mind at ease if you have one coming up.

Updated: Thursday 3 September 2026

Published: Monday 7 November 2016

Smear tests are a key part of looking after your health, but women can be anxious about the results. Nuffield Health's Medical Executive Director, Dr Davina Deniszczyz, explains the different types of smear results and what they mean for you.

Updated: Friday 28 August 2026

Published: Tuesday 15 March 2016

Worried about radiation levels in medical scans? If you're concerned, understanding more about radiation and the amount we absorb from things like flights and spending time in the sun can help put your mind at ease before a scan.

Updated: Thursday 27 August 2026

Published: Friday 16 September 2016

MRI scans are among the safest medical procedures available yet some patients dread the experience. Here's our top tips for how to stay calm and get your scan.

Updated: Thursday 27 August 2026

Published: Friday 15 January 2016

Nervous about having your blood taken? Here are four simple tips to help you prepare and get through a blood test if you have a fear or phobia.

Updated: Thursday 27 August 2026

Published: Tuesday 4 July 2017

Many of us don't know our family health history, but it's important as many conditions are inherited in our genes. Find out what questions you should be asking when it comes to your family health history.

Updated: Wednesday 19 August 2026

Published: Wednesday 17 April 2019

The idea of having your blood taken for testing can be daunting, but the experience is hardly ever as scary as you might imagine. Sister Jane Stebbing, experienced nurse at Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital, guides you through the process.

Updated: Wednesday 19 August 2026

Published: Wednesday 9 December 2015

Blood is a fascinating substance. A small amount can tell us so much and help to detect and diagnose literally thousands of health issues. So what happens after your blood test when your blood is taken to the lab? Step inside with Pathology Manager, Steve Rickard.

Updated: Wednesday 19 August 2026

Published: Wednesday 9 December 2015