Cholesterol is a type of fat that can be found in our blood. While it is essential in building healthy cells, too much of it can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.

High cholesterol levels can go unnoticed for years, making it a silent killer. Fortunately, getting your cholesterol checked is a quick and easy process that can be done in most healthcare facilities. Here’s what you need to know about getting your cholesterol checked:.

Why You Need to Have Your Cholesterol Checked

Your cholesterol levels can significantly affect your health and longevity. High levels of cholesterol can increase your risk for heart disease and other health problems.

A blood test to check your cholesterol levels is a simple and effective way to determine whether you need to make lifestyle changes to lower your cholesterol levels.

How to Prepare for a Cholesterol Test

Before getting your cholesterol checked, you should talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking or any health conditions you may have, as some medications and conditions can affect your results.

You will also be asked to fast for 9-12 hours before the test, which means you should not eat or drink anything (except water) during that time. It is recommended that you schedule your cholesterol test in the morning so that you can do your fast while sleeping and get tested as soon as possible the next morning.

The Cholesterol Test Procedure

The cholesterol test is a simple and common blood test that usually involves taking a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm.

The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis, where the lab will determine the levels of different types of cholesterol, including total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides. The test usually takes a few minutes and is relatively painless. You may experience some minor discomfort at the site of the needle insertion, but the discomfort should be fleeting.

Interpreting Your Cholesterol Test Results

Your cholesterol test results will show the levels of different types of cholesterol in your blood. Here is what each type of cholesterol means:.

Total cholesterol

Total cholesterol is the total amount of cholesterol in your blood. Ideally, it should be less than 200 mg/dL.

A total cholesterol level between 200-239 mg/dL is considered borderline high, while a total cholesterol level of 240 mg/dL or higher is considered high.

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LDL cholesterol

LDL (bad) cholesterol is the type of cholesterol that can clog your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Ideally, it should be less than 100 mg/dL.

A LDL cholesterol level between 100-129 mg/dL is considered near optimal, while a LDL cholesterol level of 130-159 mg/dL is considered borderline high. A LDL cholesterol level of 160 mg/dL or higher is considered high.

HDL cholesterol

HDL (good) cholesterol is the type of cholesterol that can help protect your heart by removing LDL cholesterol from your bloodstream. Ideally, it should be 60 mg/dL or higher.

An HDL cholesterol level between 40-59 mg/dL is considered okay, while an HDL cholesterol level of less than 40 mg/dL is considered low.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are another type of fat found in the blood. Like LDL cholesterol, high levels of triglycerides can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Ideally, your triglyceride level should be less than 150 mg/dL.

A triglyceride level between 150-199 mg/dL is considered borderline high, while a triglyceride level of 200 mg/dL or higher is considered high.

What to Do with High Cholesterol Levels

If your cholesterol levels are high, your doctor may recommend making lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, losing weight, and quitting smoking.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your cholesterol levels. It is important to work with your doctor to determine the best course of action for you.

Conclusion

Getting your cholesterol checked is an important part of maintaining good health.

While high cholesterol levels can pose serious health risks, getting tested and interpreting the results is a simple and easy process that can help you take the necessary steps to improve your health and longevity. Take charge of your health and schedule a cholesterol test today!.