1. Know Your Risks With Cholesterol Tests
Just as its name suggests, a cholesterol test measures the amount of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced naturally by the liver. It is in various foods, such as dairy products, beef and even some shellfish. People who have too much cholesterol in their diet are at risk for heart disease. Cholesterol builds up on the walls of the arteries (changing its name to plaque) and can lead to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) which in turn can lead to heart attacks. A cholesterol test can let you know if you are at risk for these problems before they happen.
2. Understand the Results of Your Cholesterol Test
A cholesterol test measures several different things at one time. It measures total blood cholesterol levels, LDL (bad) cholesterol as well as HDL (good) cholesterol levels. A cholesterol test also measures triglycerides, which play a role in heart disease. People with a total blood cholesterol level of 240 mg/dl or above are very high risk. A total blood cholesterol level of 200 mg/dl or less is the most desirable.
3. Certain People Need Cholesterol Tests
While most everyone can benefit from knowing their cholesterol levels, some people definitely need testing. Included in that group is anyone who has a family history of heart disease. Men from ages 35 to 65 and women from 45 to 65 should be tested once every five years. Any adult who suffers from coronary artery disease should undergo testing once a year. Other factors for increased cholesterol testing include people with type 1 diabetes and those already on cholesterol medication.
4. Get Ready for Your Cholesterol Test
There are two main types of cholesterol tests, non-fasting and fasting, also called a lipid profile. For a non-fasting test, you just show up and have some blood drawn. For a fasting cholesterol test, you can't eat the night before or the morning of the test. This is because the lipid profile takes a closer look at HDL, LDL and triglyceride levels, not just your overall blood cholesterol level.
5. Always Follow up a Public Cholesterol Screening
Public cholesterol screenings are becoming much more common. They are easy and affordable for most people. However, follow up with a visit to your doctor after any test given at a public cholesterol screening. Not all screenings follow the guidelines set forth by the American Heart Association. A poorly conducted screening done by unqualified staff can leave people with a false sense of security that their cholesterol test was fine.
