High cholesterol can significantly increase your risk for developing heart disease. However, your body does need some cholesterol to function properly. Having a cholesterol test performed is the only way to determine what your cholesterol levels actually are. The American Heart Association recommends people over the age of 20 have their cholesterol checked at least every five years. If you have high cholesterol, you will need it checked more often. Kits are available for you to test your cholesterol at home.
Step 1
Have your cholesterol levels checked by your doctor first to know what your baseline cholesterol levels are. Home test kits are not meant to replace cholesterol testing ordered by your doctor. Most home test kits determine total cholesterol, and you should start out knowing your entire blood lipid, or fat, profile.
Step 2
Prepare the site where you will perform the test beforehand. Make sure all supplies are included in the kit and they are located where you can reach them easily. Wash your hands with soap and water.
Step 3
Swab the tip of your finger with the alcohol wipe provided. Most kits contain a lancet, a sharp, needle-like instrument for pricking your finger. Prick your finger with the lancet and wait for a drop of blood to appear. Squeeze your finger below the site to help it along, if necessary.
Step 4
Place the blood on the test strip, a piece of paper treated with special chemicals. The test strip changes color depending on the amount of cholesterol in your blood. Match the color to the cholesterol number guide provided with the kit. If your kit has a battery-powered monitor, you may have to insert the test strip into the monitor to obtain your reading.
Step 5
Cover the tip of your finger with a small adhesive bandage if necessary. Complications are rare, but look for excessive bleeding or signs of infection later on.
Tips and Warnings
- A normal cholesterol level is under 200 mg/dL. If your cholesterol level is 200 to 239 mg/dL you have borderline high cholesterol; over 240 mg/dL means you have high cholesterol. Check the instructions beforehand; you probably need to fast for nine to 12 hours before performing the test.
Things You'll Need
- Cholesterol home testing kit
