Similar to other diseases, cholesterol needs special attention too. If not, it can lead to life-threatening issues such as heart attack or stroke. However, because some people may not have any signs, it can be difficult to know the cholesterol level.
This is where cholesterol testing becomes a necessity. While you can opt for doctors you can also check your levels at home. Worries about health? Wondering about your cholesterol level? Planning to keep track but how? Well, here is all you need to know.
How to Get Accurate Details about your Cholesterol Level?
Because high cholesterol can lead to heart stroke, it is important to do cholesterol testing. And when it comes to getting accurate information a lipid profile blood test is the best option. In this procedure, a nurse will take a small sample of blood by inserting a needle either in your arm or finger. Then the blood will be collected in a test tube or vial for further procedure. It measures different numbers such as:
- Total cholesterol
- LDL cholesterol
- HDL cholesterol
- Non-HDL cholesterol
- Triglycerides
Whether you've symptoms or not, Keep track of your cholesterol levels. The best decision is to get it checked every 4 to 6 years. However, if you're at high risk of heart disease then you may need to get your treatment done more often, especially if it runs in your family.
Can I Do a Cholesterol Test at Home?
Wondering if you can take a cholesterol test at home? Well, yes! All you'll need is the right diagnostic tools or at-home kit to check your levels. Because these tests are often done in the morning, remember to not eat or drink for 9 to 12 hours before your test. Furthermore, there are several types of at-home cholesterol tests, including :
1. Self Collection Test
In the self-test procedure, a test strip and a small device is used. However, some tests don't come with a device, instead, a test strip is used. You'll need to add a drop of blood to the strip and as a result, the colour will change according to the level of your cholesterol. This is an easy procedure in which you'll get the results within a few minutes.
2. Laboratory-Based Test
In the laboratory-based test, it involves mailing the blood sample to a lab. In this, you'll receive an at-home test kit with all necessary cholesterol diagnostic tools. Once done and mailed, the healthcare professionals will carry on with the further process.
When doing a cholesterol test at home, remember you'll get accurate details until and unless you follow the instructions properly. Besides, keep in mind that at-home tests should be done only when prescribed by a doctor.
Benefits of Testing Cholesterol at Home?
Worried if at-home cholesterol testing is the right decision? To help you have a clear picture, here are some benefits that come along:
- At-home cholesterol testing offers convenience. It means you can take the test as and when you get time. There is also no need to go to a medical office/laboratory or to make an appointment.
- This procedure comes with less hassle. This means you don't have to follow a typical blood draw procedure i.e., taking blood from a vein or arm. All you need to do is prick blood from your fingertip using a tiny needle.
Keep Track of Your Cholesterol
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