Cholesterol blood test
Most Doctors recommend that adults have a cholesterol test at some stage, to help determine if they are at risk for cardiovascular disease. The age at which a person without risk factors for cardiovascular disease should be first tested depends on many factors, such as:
Australia  Britain United States Before a cholesterol blood test Before having a cholesterol blood test, people are normally advised not to eat or drink anything (apart from water) for about 8-12 hours. You should check with your doctor or pathology service for specific instructions prior to a cholesterol test, especially if you have any other conditions such as diabetes.  Since certain medications and supplement may affect the test results, it is important to make sure that your doctor knows exactly which medications you are taking, and whether you take any herbal remedies, supplements, or other non-prescription drugs. What does the actual cholesterol test involve? A blood sample is usually taken by a doctor or nurse. Typically, blood is taken from a vein on the inner side of the elbow. The site where the blood will be drawn is wiped with antiseptic, and a needle is inserted into the vein. Blood is collected into a tube or a vial, then the needle is removed and the site is covered to stop bleeding. The blood that has been taken from you will be analysed in a lab. Usually, cholesterol tests will measure:  Total cholesterolLDL (bad) cholesterol HDL (good) cholesterol Triglycerides Sometimes the test will also tell you: total cholesterol / HDL ratio LDL / HDL ratio What do my cholesterol test results mean? You Doctor or GP should be able to tell you what your results mean. Click here for further information on interpreting your test results. When to get tested Did you know that total, LDL and HDL cholesterol levels can drop, and triglycerides may increase for up to 8 weeks after severe illness, such as after a heart attach, arterial surgery or acute infection? Generally cholesterol tests should not be done during this time, however your Doctor will be the one to tell you when to have your cholesterol checked. Generally, people are advised to make sure they are in a healthy state before their cholesterol is tested, and are usually advised to allow at least 6-8 weeks after any major illness, infection or arterial surgery. Again, your Doctor will be ther best person to ask for more specific advice about this. How do I arrange a cholesterol test? Through your local Doctor, GP or specialist. Why do people get their cholesterol checked? High cholesterol is one of the 3 major risk factors for heart disease. The other 2 major risk factors and smoking and high blood pressure. Other names for a cholesterol test
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