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Cholesterol Test
Overview
Cholesterol is a naturally occurring, waxy, fat-like substance with a steroid-like structure. It is naturally synthesized in many tissues, particularly in the liver and intestinal wall, and is present in every cell in the body. The source of cholesterol comes from either newly synthesized cholesterol or from dietary sources. Cholesterol is transported in the blood in the form of lipoprotein, which is attached to cholesterol. LDL carries cholesterol throughout the body, but at times, LDL accumulates in the artery walls, making them narrow and hard.
In contrast, HDL carries excess cholesterol back to the liver, which is why it is called good cholesterol. Lifestyle changes have also increased the risk factors for heart attacks. Although some risk factors, such as genetics and age, can lead to high cholesterol, certain habits, such as smoking, eating unhealthy foods, drinking alcohol, and having a sedentary lifestyle, can also increase the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke or heart attack. Knowing your cholesterol levels can help protect you from heart attacks. Read on to learn more about what cholesterol is and why the total cholesterol test is done.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Total Cholesterol Test is done to measure the total amount of cholesterol in the blood. It helps assess the risk of developing heart disease and guides decisions regarding lifestyle changes and/or medication to manage cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.
The Total Cholesterol Test measures the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol. This test provides an overall assessment of cholesterol levels, which is important for evaluating cardiovascular health and assessing the risk of heart disease.
During a Total Cholesterol Test, a healthcare professional will typically take a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch or sting when the needle is inserted. Once the sample is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
If the Total Cholesterol Test results are present, it means that measurable levels of cholesterol were detected in the blood. The results will provide information about the levels of LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol, which are important for assessing cardiovascular health.
If the results are absent, it could indicate an error in the test or extremely low cholesterol levels, which would be unusual. In such cases, healthcare providers may repeat the test to confirm the results or investigate further.
To prepare for a total cholesterol serum test, fast for 9-12 hours, avoiding food and drink except water. Inform your healthcare provider about medications and supplements, avoid alcohol, stay hydrated, and follow any additional instructions provided.
Why OrbitoAsia Diagnostics?
Orbito Asia Labs and Scans is a comprehensive healthcare imaging and diagnostic facility under one roof. It prides itself on providing the most advanced infrastructure, the best possible medical facilities, the most competitive prices, and thorough individualised attention so that the customer can have diagnostic tests performed in the most efficient and cost-effective manner at a single location by our experienced and certified physicians and friendly staff.
