Everything to Know about A Cholesterol Test

Also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile test, a cholesterol test is done to check the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. The article discusses everything about a cholesterol test.

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in all the cells in the body. While the liver makes cholesterol, it is also naturally available in some foods, including dairy products, eggs, and meat. The human body needs a perfect amount of cholesterol to work properly. However, more than the normal range of cholesterol in the body can increase the risk of coronary artery disease. There are different types of cholesterol, classified as either bad or good. A total cholesterol test checks for the level of good and bad cholesterol available in the body. Here is everything to know about a cholesterol test.

What Does a Cholesterol Test Measures?

A cholesterol test evaluates the levels of fats or lipids in the blood. It mainly checks:

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) levels

Also called good cholesterol, HDL helps to avoid accumulating bad LDL cholesterol.

Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) levels

Also known as bad cholesterol, high LDL can lead to obstructions in the arteries.

Triglycerides

High levels of triglycerides can boost the risk of heart problems.

VLDL levels

It is also a bad cholesterol type associated with plaque deposits on artery walls, constricting the passage and hampering blood flow.

Total Cholesterol

It is the total quantity of HDL, LDL, and VLDL cholesterol. A high total cholesterol level can boost the risks of heart disease, stroke, and other problems.

Who should have a Cholesterol Test?

An increased level of cholesterol does not cause symptoms. A cholesterol blood test is the only way to know the exact levels. Most doctors and healthcare providers prescribe this test as a part of routine health check-ups. However, people need to book a cholesterol test at home or in the lab in following cases.

• If they have a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol

• If they are obese or overweight

• In case they smoke or drink alcohol frequently

• If they have an inactive lifestyle

In addition, a person needs to get this test done if he, or she is suffering from any health problems like polycystic ovary syndrome, kidney disease, diabetes, and an underactive thyroid gland.

Test Procedure

There are two common ways of carrying out a cholesterol test. These include:

Finger-Prick Test

This test is done by using an at-home kit to check cholesterol levels. A finger prick test is fast and painless, and the results can be checked right away. The kit comes with a device to prick a finger to collect a drop of blood for testing. It is crucial to follow the kit guidelines carefully.

Blood Sample from an Arm

It is a regular blood test procedure usually performed at a diagnostic lab. A healthcare provider will draw a small blood sample from the vein of one of the arms of the person and send the sample for evaluation. Often, this test is done in the morning after fasting for 10 to 12 hours.

It is vital for everyone to get their cholesterol level tested once or twice a year to better diagnose and prevent heart issues due to high cholestrol. However, those going through treatment for high cholesterol should go for regular testing to monitor the efficacy of their treatments.