Total Cholesterol Test
This test measures the level of all cholesterol in the blood. It does not give a breakdown of the different types of cholesterol.
A total cholesterol test gives a total of all the different forms of cholesterol in your blood.
- This test does not give a breakdown of the different types of cholesterol, so it currently has a limited value. It does have some use in calculating the level of non-HDL cholesterol in the blood.
- A breakdown of the different types of cholesterol, as well as a triglyceride level, is given in a lipid panel.
- This test may be done as part of your regular checkup to assess your risk for heart disease or to monitor a chronic condition.
In an adult, the blood sample is usually taken by placing a needle in a vein in the arm or by pricking a finger.
- You may need to fast before the test.
- Ask your healthcare provider if you need to stop taking any medicines before the test.
- Do not stop taking any medicine unless your healthcare provider tells you to.
This care path's costs do not include the charge to draw blood from a vein (venipuncture). There will only be one charge to draw blood, even if multiple tests are being performed on the samples that are taken.
What should I ask my healthcare provider before having this test?
- Is there any special preparation for the test? (If so, get clear instructions on what you need to do.)
- What is the reason for the test? Will the test results change my treatment plan? If not, do I need the test?
- When should I have my cholesterol checked again?
- What risk factors do I have for heart disease?
- Do my children need to be tested?
Source UHC.com
Also known as:
Total Cholesterol TestLaboratory WorkFatsHigh CholesterolHypercholesterolemiaCholesterolCholesterol TestHigh Cholesterol MonitoringCholesterol Screening
A total cholesterol test gives a total of all the different forms of cholesterol in your blood.
- This test does not give a breakdown of the different types of cholesterol, so it currently has a limited value. It does have some use in calculating the level of non-HDL cholesterol in the blood.
- A breakdown of the different types of cholesterol, as well as a triglyceride level, is given in a lipid panel.
- This test may be done as part of your regular checkup to assess your risk for heart disease or to monitor a chronic condition.
In an adult, the blood sample is usually taken by placing a needle in a vein in the arm or by pricking a finger.
- You may need to fast before the test.
- Ask your healthcare provider if you need to stop taking any medicines before the test.
- Do not stop taking any medicine unless your healthcare provider tells you to.
This care path's costs do not include the charge to draw blood from a vein (venipuncture). There will only be one charge to draw blood, even if multiple tests are being performed on the samples that are taken.
What should I ask my healthcare provider before having this test?
- Is there any special preparation for the test? (If so, get clear instructions on what you need to do.)
- What is the reason for the test? Will the test results change my treatment plan? If not, do I need the test?
- When should I have my cholesterol checked again?
- What risk factors do I have for heart disease?
- Do my children need to be tested?
Source UHC.com
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