Cholesterol - Total

Also known as Blood Cholesterol

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Overnight fasting is preferred.

Understanding Cholesterol - Total

What is Cholesterol - Total?

A Cholesterol - Total test measures the total amount of cholesterol (fats) in the blood. This test analyzes the risk of developing heart disease and monitors the effectiveness of any ongoing cholesterol-lowering treatment. It is often done as part of a lipid profile, which measures different types of fats in the blood.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all body cells. An optimal amount of cholesterol is essential for various bodily functions. However, too much cholesterol can build up in the blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, or other health problems.

A Cholesterol - Total checks for low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also called ‘bad’ cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), also called ‘good’ cholesterol. Deposition of too much LDL cholesterol can narrow down or block the opening of blood vessels, making it harder for the blood to flow through, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease or other health problems. Whereas deposition of too much HDL cholesterol is usually considered beneficial for heart health, as it helps reduce the risk of plaque buildup in the blood vessels.

Usually, overnight fasting of 8 to 12 hours is preferred for a Cholesterol - Total. However, you can drink water during the fasting period. Also, your doctor may suggest you stop taking certain medications such as statins, beta-blockers, etc., a few days before this test, as these could affect your test results.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your condition and formulate an overall treatment plan.

What is Cholesterol - Total used for?

A Cholesterol - Total test is done:

As part of routine health checkups to measure the blood cholesterol level.
To determine an individual's risk of developing heart conditions, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
To monitor the effectiveness of any ongoing cholesterol-lowering treatment.
To detect early deviations in individuals with a family history of high blood cholesterol or premature heart disease.

What does Cholesterol - Total measure?

A Cholesterol - Total test measures the total amount of cholesterol (fats) in your blood. Cholesterol is mainly synthesized in the liver and partially in the intestines. It acts as a building block for cell membranes, serves as a precursor to vital hormones, and helps in the production of bile acids that help digest fats. Cholesterol is transported through the blood by two kinds of proteins: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). An optimal amount of these proteins is necessary for proper body functioning.

Interpreting Cholesterol - Total results

Interpretations

Cholesterol Levels (mg/dL)	In adults	In children
Desirable Level	< 200	< 170
Borderline High	200- 239	171 - 199
High	> or = 240	> or = 200

The reference range may vary from lab to lab*

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cholesterol - Total

Frequently Asked Questions about Cholesterol - Total

Q. What is the purpose of a Cholesterol - Total test?

A Cholesterol - Total test helps assess the risk of developing heart disease or other health problems at an initial stage.

Q. Is there any risk associated with a Cholesterol - Total test?

There is no risk associated with this test. However, as a needle is used to prick and collect your blood sample, you may experience bleeding, swelling, or blood collection under the skin, which is usually self-limiting. Consult your doctor if these symptoms do not subside.

Q. What are the signs and symptoms associated with high cholesterol levels?

High cholesterol is a silent condition without any typical symptoms. Most people do not even realize they have high cholesterol levels until it is detected through a blood test. Although, high cholesterol levels may cause complications such as atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, etc.

Q. How is a Cholesterol - Total test performed?

A phlebotomist (a trained professional to perform blood draws) will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take a blood sample from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. How can I maintain my cholesterol levels?

You must consult your doctor if you have high cholesterol levels. However, you can maintain healthy cholesterol levels by making a few changes in your lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, managing stress, avoiding alcohol and smoking, or taking medication if required.

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