There are usually no symptoms of high cholesterol, which is why it’s important to have your doctor check it cholesterol levels You have it through a simple blood test, according to what the site says heart During the test the healthcare professional takes a blood sample if further blood tests are needed, usually all samples are taken at the same time the discomfort is usually less.
After taking the blood sample, it is analyzed in the laboratory, where the levels of HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides are measured (if you are not fasting, only the total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol values will be usable) The test report will show the blood cholesterol level in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dl).
To determine your risk for cardiovascular disease, your doctor will look at your cholesterol test results in the context of your age, gender, and family history. Other risk factors, such as smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure, will also be considered.
If your risk remains uncertain and treatment options aren’t clear, your doctor may consider other factors or order a coronary artery calcium measurement. (CAC) To provide more insight into your risk and help you make a decision.
How often should cholesterol be checked?
The American Heart Association recommends that all adults age 20 and older get their cholesterol and other traditional risk factors checked every 4 to 6 years for heart or stroke for 10 years.
People with cardiovascular disease, who are at high risk, may need to have their cholesterol and other risk factors evaluated more often..
Your doctor will explain what your cholesterol levels mean and can discuss treatment options if your numbers aren’t where they should be.
Where should cholesterol be checked?
It is best to have your primary care physician perform the test. As noted, blood cholesterol levels are just one of many factors that affect cardiovascular health. Your primary care physician will have a more complete understanding of your personal and family history, as well as any other risk factors that may apply.
If your cholesterol is checked during a checkup, they may measure your HDL cholesterol and total cholesterol, but if your HDL cholesterol isn’t measured (HDL) Knowing your total cholesterol levels can still give you valuable information. Regular measurement of blood cholesterol, blood pressure, body mass index and fasting blood sugar should be part of your overall personal care plan..
If you get your cholesterol test results from a source outside your doctor’s office, be sure to share them with your primary care physician. Additional data points help determine the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is especially important for people who smoke or have other health conditions such as diabetes or diabetes Inflammatory conditions or a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure or stroke.
