Cholesterol and triglycerides tests are blood tests that measure the amount of lipids (fats and fatty substances) in your blood. Lipids include cholesterol, triglycerides, and "good" (HDL) and "bad" (LDL) lipoprotein.
Why are these tests done?
These tests are done to measure the amount of lipids—fats and fatty substances—in your blood. The results can help your doctor decide if you need treatment. You may need to make lifestyle changes, such as changing your diet or being more active.
How do you prepare for these tests?
Not eating or drinking (fasting) before the blood test is not usually needed, but it may be recommended. Your doctor may ask you to fast except for drinking water for 8 hours before the test. In most cases, you can take medicines with water on the morning of the test.
Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
Tell the doctor all the medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies you take. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking any of them before the test and how soon to do it. Some of these may affect the results.
How are these tests done?
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
What should your cholesterol levels be?
These are general guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your own target levels. Yours will depend on your age, sex, health, and risk for certain health problems. Your doctor may recommend the following levels:
Total cholesterol: Lower than 170 mg/dL
LDL cholesterol: Lower than 110 mg/dL
HDL cholesterol: Higher than 45 mg/dL
Triglycerides:
Age 10 to 19 years: Lower than 90 mg/dL
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to keep a list of the medicines you take. Ask your doctor when you can expect to have your test results.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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