An overview of Cholesterol Test
A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile, is a blood test that measures the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. This test helps determine your risk of developing fatty deposits in your arteries, which can lead to narrowed or blocked arteries and an increased risk of heart attacks and other heart diseases. The test calculates four types of fats in your blood: total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides.
What is Cholesterol Test used for?
A cholesterol test is used to measure the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in a person's blood. This test helps determine the risk of fatty deposits (plaques) building up in arteries, leading to atherosclerosis and an increased risk of heart attacks and other heart diseases. Cholesterol tests are important tools in assessing the risk of coronary artery disease.
How often should Cholesterol Test be performed?
Cholesterol screenings should occur every 1 to 2 years for men ages 45 to 65 and for women ages 55 to 65. For people over 65, annual cholesterol tests are recommended. However, if you have abnormal initial test results, are taking cholesterol-lowering medications, have coronary artery disease, or are at higher risk due to various factors such as family history, obesity, inactivity, or diabetes, more frequent testing might be needed.
How to prepare for Cholesterol Test?
For a cholesterol test, you are generally required to fast for 9 to 12 hours before the test, consuming only water. Some cholesterol tests don't require fasting, so be sure to follow your doctor's specific instructions. It is also important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking and any medical conditions you have.
How is Cholesterol Test conducted?
A cholesterol test is conducted through a blood test, which measures the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. The test is usually done in the morning after an overnight fast, during which you consume only water. A healthcare professional will clean the puncture site with antiseptic and wrap an elastic band around your upper arm to make the veins more visible. They will then insert a needle into a vein and collect a small amount of blood into a vial or syringe. Once enough blood is collected, the needle will be removed, and the puncture site will be covered with a bandage. The procedure is relatively painless and typically takes a couple of minutes. After the test, you can resume your normal activities, including driving yourself home.
How are Cholesterol Test results reported?
Cholesterol test results are reported in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood in the United States and some other countries. In Canada and many European countries, cholesterol levels are measured in millimoles per liter (mmol/L). The general guidelines to interpret your test results are as follows: Total cholesterol:
- Below 200 mg/dL: Desirable
- 200-239 mg/dL: Borderline high
- 240 mg/dL and above: High
LDL cholesterol:
- Below 70 mg/dL: Best for people who have coronary artery disease
- Below 100 mg/dL: Optimal for people at risk of coronary artery disease or who have a history of diabetes. Near optimal for people with uncomplicated coronary artery disease
- 100-129 mg/dL: Normal range for people with no heart disease risk factors
These guidelines are based on general recommendations and may vary depending on individual factors and risk levels. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to understand your specific cholesterol test results and discuss any necessary lifestyle changes or treatments.
Understanding the report
Cholesterol test results are interpreted based on the levels of different types of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. The general guidelines for interpreting cholesterol test results are as follows: Total Cholesterol:
- Below 200 mg/dL (or 5.18 mmol/L): Desirable
- 200-239 mg/dL (or 5.18-6.18 mmol/L): Borderline high
- 240 mg/dL or above (or 6.18 mmol/L or higher): High
LDL Cholesterol:
- Below 70 mg/dL (or 1.8 mmol/L): Best for people with coronary artery disease or a history of heart attacks, angina, stents, or coronary bypass
- Below 100 mg/dL (or 2.6 mmol/L): Optimal for people at risk of coronary artery disease or who have a history of diabetes. Near optimal for people with uncomplicated coronary artery disease
- 100-129 mg/dL (or 2.6-3.3 mmol/L): Normal
- 130-159 mg/dL (or 3.3-4.1 mmol/L): Borderline high
- 160 mg/dL or above (or 4.1 mmol/L or higher): High
HDL Cholesterol:
- 60 mg/dL or above (or 1.55 mmol/L or higher): Optimal
- 40-59 mg/dL (or 1.01-1.54 mmol/L): Normal
- Below 40 mg/dL (or 1.01 mmol/L or lower): Low
Triglycerides:
- Below 150 mg/dL (or 1.7 mmol/L): Normal
- 150-199 mg/dL (or 1.7-2.2 mmol/L): Borderline