A lipid profile test is a type of blood test, which measures the amount of particular fat molecules, and lipids. In several cases, this test contains a measurement of triglycerides and four distinguished cholesterol measurements.
The presence of excess lipids (triglycerides and cholesterol) in your blood can cause fat buildup in your arteries and blood vessels. This buildup can damage your cardiovascular and make you prone to cardiovascular problems. Your doctor recommends you have a lipid profile test for the risk evaluation of cardiovascular diseases like heart stroke and attack.
Other names for a lipid profile test are as follows:
- Lipid profile
- Cholesterol panel
- Lipid test
- Coronary risk panel
- Fasting lipid panel or non-fasting lipid panel
Five tests that come under a lipid profile test
A lipid test includes the measurements of 5 different lipids from a taken blood sample. The five tests are as follows:
- LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol – It is bad cholesterol. Building up in the blood vessels, it can make you highly prone to cardiovascular diseases.
- Total cholesterol – It is the combination of VLDL-C, LDL-C, and HDL-C.
- VLDL-C (Very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) – This type of cholesterol is present in a very low amount. An increase in its amount from a fasting sample may signal abnormal lipid metabolism.
- HDL-C (High-density lipoprotein cholesterol) – It is good cholesterol and facilitates to lower development of LDL in your blood vessels.
- Triglycerides – It is a type of fat that buildups from the food you eat. Its excess amount links to pancreatic inflammation and cardiovascular diseases.
The above-mentioned measurements are common cholesterol panel tests. Some tests may consist of other measurements.
Why does your doctor recommend a lipid test to you?
Your doctor uses a lipid profile test report to analyze cholesterol present in your body and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Here are other reasons why your doctor recommends a cholesterol panel test:
A routine check for the determination of your cholesterol level and its classification as normal, intermediate, or risky
To monitor your cholesterol levels if your previous test reports were abnormal
To track the response of your body to a treatment
To diagnose and treat other health conditions
When should I have a lipid profile test?
You should have a lipid test if you
- Suspect of having a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Are a man above 45 years of age or a woman above 50
- Had abnormal cholesterol levels in earlier tests
- Smoke cigarettes
- Have obesity
- Live a highly comfortable life with no physical activity
- Have high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, or prediabetes
- Had heart issues in your family
What should I do to have better and more accurate lipid profile test results?
You should do nothing but follow your doctor’s instructions to have a lipid test. Avoid eating anything for 10-12 hours if your doctor requests you to have a fast lipid profile test. Your doctor or pathologist will explain what you should do before coming to produce samples.
What should I expect during and after the test?
You should be ready to experience the following things:
- Sitting in a chair and examination of your arms for accessible veins
- Cleaning and disinfection of the located vein area
- Insertion of a needle attached to a syringe for collecting blood samples
- Extraction of a small amount of blood and transfer of the collected blood sample into the test tube
- Cotton placement to stop bleeding or gauze after the removal of the needle
- A bandage placement after the completion of sample collection
- Test conduction at the lab on the collected samples
- Report preparation
- Having the test report within 1-2 working days
Are there any risks associated with a lipid profile test?
Blood sample collections and tests are very common. There are no severe risks associated with this screening/test. However, you can experience a slight bruise or tenderness at the affected site.
What is the cost of a lipid profile test in Delhi?
A lipid profile test price in Delhi varies from one pathology lab to another and its content. It can cost you anything between INR 500 to INR 2000 in Delhi.
Normal lipid panel test results
A normal range of all the standard tests is as follows:
- Total cholesterol – Below 200 mg/dL.
- HDL-C (High-density lipoprotein cholesterol) – Above 60 mg/dL.
- LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol – Below 100 mg/dL (For people with diabetes – Below 70 mg/dL).
- Triglycerides -Below 150 mg/dL.
What should I do if my lipid profile test results are abnormal?
You should contact your doctor when you notice abnormal lipid profile test results. Further, you need to constantly monitor your lipids, follow a healthy lifestyle, and take prescribed medicines. In lifestyle changes, you should take a healthy diet, do workouts, quit smoking, and manage your stress.
Conclusion
Having a lipid test is highly beneficial. Apart from keeping you informed on your current cholesterol levels, it helps you take the requisite action to stay healthy and avoid cardiovascular diseases and allied health issues. Your doctor or pathologist will facilitate this test in a better way.
