A lipid profile test is the most commonly recommended test by doctors for patients with heart diseases. In common parlance, it is also known as a cholesterol test. When opting for the lipid profile test procedure, remember it measures both the good fat and bad fat in your body. In medical terms, these fats are called lipids and include cholesterol and triglycerides.
What is Cholesterol?
It is a waxy substance found in your body's cells. The substance is important for bodily functions, such as producing hormones and building new cells. You can search for a ‘diagnostic lab near me’, and book a lipid profile test. It is important to remember if there is an excess of cholesterol in your blood, it can build up on the walls of your arteries. This can lead to the forming of plaques and a lethal disease called atherosclerosis, a condition that narrows or blocks your arteries.
Another type of fat your body produces is triglycerides that are found in your blood. They are the main source of energy for your body. However, high levels of triglycerides in your blood can also increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Why is a Lipid Profile Test Done?
The lipid profile test list will take into account good and bad cholesterol and triglycerides. Here is why a lipid profile test is done:
- The diagnostic lab near me will assess your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, such as heart disease and stroke.
- The lipid profile test procedure will screen for high cholesterol or triglycerides, which may not cause any symptoms.
- Your doctor will use the test to monitor the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering medications or lifestyle changes.
- Help to diagnose other medical conditions, such as liver disease or diabetes.
How is a Lipid Profile Test Done?
The diagnostic centre near me will tell you that the lipid profile test is a simple blood test. You do not need to prepare for it, however, the diagnostician will ask you to fast for 8-12 hours before the test.
During the test, a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm after tying a tourniquet. The blood is stored at the right temperature before it is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What do the Results of a Lipid Profile Test mean?
As mentioned above, the results of a lipid profile test procedure will show the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), and triglycerides in your blood.
- Total cholesterol: This is the total amount of cholesterol in your blood.
- LDL cholesterol: LDL cholesterol, also known as "bad cholesterol," can build up on the walls of your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
- HDL cholesterol: HDL cholesterol, also known as "good cholesterol," helps to remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat that can also increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
The recommended levels for each type of lipid are shared below. However do not try to interpret the result on your own. Make sure you visit a doctor for consultation.
- Total cholesterol | Less than 200 mg/dL
- LDL cholesterol | Less than 100 mg/dL (70 mg/dL for people with diabetes)
- HDL cholesterol | More than 60 mg/dL
- Triglycerides | Less than 150 mg/dL |
If your lipid levels are above or below the recommended levels, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and losing weight. In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications. Choose a trustworthy diagnostic centre to ensure the accuracy of results!
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What can I do to Improve my Lipid Profile?
There are a number of things you can do to improve your lipid profile, including:
- Eating a healthy diet: This includes eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Consult a dietician, they may limit your saturated and unhealthy fats.
- Exercising regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise at least 5 times a week. Consult your doctor before you start high-intensity exercises.
- Losing weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can help to improve your lipid levels. Giving up sugar, fried foods and colas should be a good start towards your weight loss journey.
- Quitting smoking: Smoking can damage your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
If you have any questions or concerns about your lipid profile test results, be sure to talk to your doctor.
