Lipid panel (cholesterol)
cholesterol test · lipid profile · LDL and HDL · triglycerides
A blood test from a vein that measures fats in your blood: total cholesterol, "bad" and "good" cholesterol, and triglycerides.
To check your risk of heart and blood vessel disease, if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or extra weight, and to monitor treatment.
⏱ Duration: the blood draw takes 3 to 5 minutes. Results usually take 1 to 2 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Usually fasting: 9 to 12 hours without food. Some labs accept non-fasting samples. Check with your lab. Water is fine.
- The day before. No fatty food at dinner. No alcohol for one to two days before.
- Routine. Eat as usual for a week before the test. Do not go on a special diet. It will make the result less accurate.
- Medicines. Do not stop them on your own, especially cholesterol medicines.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your ID
- Past results, to compare
How it goes
- You sit down and rest your arm on the armrest
- A band is tied on your arm, and the skin is cleaned with antiseptic
- A quick prick, and blood fills the tube
- The needle is removed, and a cotton pad is pressed on the spot
What you'll feel
- A quick prick
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes
- You can eat right away
- Cholesterol targets differ for everyone. Your doctor sets yours
Common questions
What are "bad" and "good" cholesterol?
"Bad" cholesterol, LDL, builds up in blood vessels. "Good" cholesterol, HDL, helps clear cholesterol away. The balance between them matters.
How often should I check my cholesterol?
Adults usually every few years, more often if you have risk factors. Your doctor will tell you how often.