Lactate, Serum/Plasma
Lactate (lactic acid) measures a substance your body produces when cells make energy, especially when oxygen supply is limited. It's usually cleared by the liver and kidneys.
Lactate rises when tissues aren't getting enough oxygen or when clearance is reduced, so it can be a helpful marker of how well your body is meeting its energy and oxygen needs. It's often used in acute care settings.
A higher lactate can follow intense exercise but can also signal that tissues aren't receiving enough oxygen or that clearance is reduced, which may need prompt evaluation depending on the situation. Your clinician interprets it with your clinical picture.
Lower values are generally not a concern.
A typical resting range is roughly 0.5 to 2.2 mmol/L, though it varies with activity and collection. Your clinician can interpret your value.
Sources
Educational context only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex; always discuss your results with a clinician.