Lipid Panel-Cholesterol Test

How it Works

Lipid Panel-Cholesterol Test

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is essential for healthy functioning of the body.  However, high levels of cholesterol can build up in the arteries causing serious health complications.  High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.  A lipid panel is a common cholesterol test that measures the components of the cholesterol in your blood.  Maintaining awareness of your cholesterol levels through regular lipid panels is an essential health precaution.  

What does a Lipid Panel (cholesterol test) measure?

A lipid panel (cholesterol test) will be broken down into these measurements. 

Total Cholesterol: Total cholesterol is a measure of the cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood.  A normal measure of total cholesterol is less than 200mg/dl. 

Low-density Lipoprotein (LDL): LDL is sometimes called the “bad cholesterol.”  High levels of LDL lead to cholesterol buildup in the arteries.  A normal measure for LDL is 60-130 mg/dl.

High-density Lipoprotein (HDL): HDL is sometimes called the “good cholesterol.”  HDL carries cholesterol from various parts of your body to the liver which removes the cholesterol from your system.  A normal measure for HDL is greater than 40 mg/dl.

Triglycerides: Triglycerides are fats that build up in your body when you consume more calories than your body needs.  These fats combine with cholesterol and protein to form lipoproteins.  A normal measure for triglycerides is 10-150 mg/dl.

Very Low-density Lipoprotein (VLDL): VLDL contains large amounts of triglycerides and very little protein.  VLDL contributes to cholesterol buildup in the arteries.  A normal measure for VLDL is 2-38 mg/dl.

An easy, affordable Lipid Panel (cholesterol test)

At Request a Test, we have access to labs all over the country.  We use the same testing facilities that are employed by many hospitals and physicians for their testing needs.  All of our labs operate on a walk-in basis so there is no need to schedule appointments.  Ordering your lipid panel (cholesterol test) with us eliminates the need to go through your doctor or insurance.  Our selection of lipid panels (cholesterol tests) is always reasonably priced with no hidden fees. 

Types of Lipid Panels (cholesterol tests)

Our basic Lipid Panel (cholesterol test) measures total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and VHDL.  We also offer lipid panels (cholesterol tests) which include measurements for HDL:LDL ratio and total cholesterol:HDL ratio.  These can be useful in determining a person’s risk for certain health complications.  Lipid panels (cholesterol tests) typically see results the next business day.  For pricing and more information on these and other tests in our heart health category, please visit http://requestatest.com/heart-health-testing.

Symptoms of high cholesterol

There are generally no symptoms of high cholesterol.  A lipid panel (cholesterol test) can inform you of your cholesterol level.

Who should get a Lipid Panel (cholesterol test)?

Being overweight, eating a diet high in fats, and avoiding physical activity can contribute to high cholesterol.  Age, gender, and family history can also affect your tendency for having an elevated cholesterol level.  The risk of developing high cholesterol generally increases as one gets older.  Women’s cholesterol levels typically increase after menopause.  A predisposition for high cholesterol can be hereditary.  Certain health conditions like diabetes can increase the risk for high cholesterol.  It is important to consult with a doctor to determine which risk factors may affect you.  While you may not believe you are at risk, anyone can have high cholesterol.  It is recommended that all adults over the age of 20 receive regular cholesterol tests.      

Why get a Lipid Panel (cholesterol test)?

Over time, high cholesterol causes deposits called plaques to form on your arterial walls.  This buildup can prevent the flow of blood through your arteries and result in chest pain, blood clots, heart attack, or stroke.  High cholesterol can often lead to heart disease which is the leading cause of death in the United States.    

When to get a Lipid Panel (cholesterol test)

It is recommended that anyone over the age of 20 get a lipid panel (cholesterol test) every five years.  Those with certain risk factors may wish to get tested more often.  Consulting with a doctor can help to determine how often you should get tested.  

Where can I get a Lipid Panel (cholesterol test)?

Request A Test contracts with 2 of the largest labs in the United States to provide you with 1000s of lab collection centers nationwide.  When you order your lipid panel (cholesterol test) with us, we will find the lab location that is most convenient for you.  Once your order is complete, you can go to the lab anytime during their business hours.  To find the lab location nearest to you or to view a complete list of available lab locations, please go to http://requestatest.com/testinglocations.   

Lipid Panel (cholesterol test) preparation

Lipid panels (cholesterol tests) require fasting prior to blood collection.  Do not eat or drink anything except water during the fasting period as this could affect the accuracy of your test results.  The fasting requirements for various lipid panels (cholesterol tests) range from 9-14 hours.  The listings for individual tests detail specific fasting requirements.

Lipid Panel (cholesterol test) procedure

Upon arrival at the lab, you will be subjected to a simple blood collection.

Lipid Panel (cholesterol test) accuracy

At Request a Test we use only nationally accredited labs with highly trained personnel and state of the art equipment to ensure the highest possible accuracy in your lipid panel (cholesterol test) results.

Lipid Panel (cholesterol test) results

Lipid panels (cholesterol tests) typically see results the next business day.  You will be notified by e-mail as soon as your results are available.  You can access your results online or call to speak with a representative.  Results can also be sent by fax or mail by special request. 

High cholesterol treatment

It is always advisable to consult with a doctor to determine the best methods for lowering your cholesterol.  In some cases, lifestyle changes such as diet, weight loss, and increased physical activity can be effective in lowering cholesterol.  Prescription medication may be necessary when lifestyle changes are insufficient.   

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