Cholesterol Tests

Cholesterol Tests at Walgreens

High cholesterol is a very common health issue that has a number of causes and risk factors, including genetics, an unhealthy diet, overweight or a large waist circumference, a lack of exercise, smoking and diabetes. High cholesterol is often treatable and manageable with medications and lifestyle changes. Home cholesterol tests allow you to check your cholesterol level between doctor visits. Walgreens can help you easily purchase home cholesterol tests to keep track of your numbers.

Understanding Cholesterol Readings

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance thats found in the cells of the body. There are two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Excessive levels of LDL or "bad cholesterol" can lead to a buildup of fatty deposits or plaque in your blood vessels that can accumulate and create blockages. A blockage can restrict blood flow, leading to a heart attack or stroke. HDL or "good cholesterol" helps to protect the cardiovascular system by carrying away excess LDL, which can help keep your arteries open. Typically, treatment for high cholesterol focuses on lowering LDL and raising HDL levels. Triglycerides, another type of blood fat, are sometimes measured with cholesterol. Your body converts excess calories you eat into triglycerides, and stores them in fat cells. Your doctor can provide you with guidelines regarding what your target cholesterol readings should be.

Reasons to Test at Home

People who are concerned that they may have high cholesterol may wish to perform a test to find out if they need to see a doctor. Individuals may also wish to periodically test to see what their cholesterol is between checkups with their doctor. Keep in mind that it is not a good idea to try and treat high cholesterol on your own. If you perform a test and find out that you have elevated cholesterol levels, its important to consult a medical professional.

Home Cholesterol Tests

Testing your cholesterol at home typically requires a sample of blood that is obtained by pricking your finger. With most tests, you place the collected blood on a special strip. The strip is then packaged and mailed to a laboratory for analysis. Results are typically available online, over the phone or through the mail. With other home cholesterol kits, you simply watch what color the test strip turns after you place a blood sample on it. The test strips have special chemicals that change color after a few minutes depending on your cholesterol level. Youll match the color of the strip against a guide that comes with the test kit. The color will tell you how much cholesterol was in the droplet of blood. Other home cholesterol kits come with an electronic meter similar to a blood glucose monitor used by people with diabetes. You insert the test strip into the meter, where a small computer measures your cholesterol and displays the reading.

Ensuring Accurate Results

No home cholesterol test can provide accurate results if used improperly. That is why it's important to carefully read the directions provided with the testing kit. Following those instructions will help to ensure that the results you receive are as reliable as possible. Your doctor can help you decide which type of home cholesterol test is best for your needs.