Excessively high cholesterol levels are a leading factor in instances of heart disease and stroke. To asses one's risk of experiencing one of these health problems, a total cholesterol count is helpful. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is produced by the body and consumed in foods. Some cholesterol is required by the body to repair blood vessels and form the lining of cells, but too much is considered dangerous. If stroke or heart attack is a concern, determine your total cholesterol count to monitor your risk.
Calculate Your Cholesterol Count
Step 1
Ask your physician to perform a lipid panel blood test. This is the type of blood test that is needed to determine the level of cholesterol present in your blood.
Step 2
Do not eat or drink anything with the exception of water for 12 hours before your lipid panel blood test. The blood test requires a 12-hour fast to deliver the most accurate results. Your physician will likely suggest you schedule the blood to be drawn in the morning, after ceasing your food and drink intake 12 hours prior, before sleeping.
Step 3
Blood test results may often take up to 5 or 7 business days to come back from the lab. Your physician's office will notify you when the results are in, and schedule a new appointment with you.
Step 4
Attend your appointment to review the blood test results with your physician. He will go over the numbers with you, explain what a healthy level is and how your cholesterol count relates to it. He will likely also make suggestions on how you can improve your cholesterol levels, if necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- To assess your overall risk for stroke or heart attack, your physician may need some additional information regarding your family's medical history.
- Doctor's appointments can be time consuming because sometimes the doctor may get behind in his appointments. Be prepared to wait an extra 15 to 20 minutes above your scheduled appointment time.
Things You'll Need
- Physician
- Lipid Panel Blood Work
