Cholesterol Test - Price, Procedure, Range, Preparation 2024

Table of Content

Introduction to Cholesterol Test

Do you know the invisible factor that can influence your heart health? Well, it's cholesterol! Besides being produced by your liver, cholesterol can be easily found in certain food items. The substance is essential for building cell membranes, producing hormones & aid in digestion. However, it is not all good and all bad. It has a significant role in your heart health as both a necessary component & potential risk factor. Thus, maintaining a healthy balance of cholesterol levels is critical to keep your heart and overall wellness in check. Regular Cholesterol Test is the key to keeping track of their levels, making necessary lifestyle adjustments, and receiving treatment if needed. Maintaining the levels within a healthy range is vital to minimize the risk of cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, and other health complications. So, if you don't know the status of your cholesterol levels, book a Cholesterol Test now.

Redcliffe Labs is a reliable diagnostic partner for a Cholesterol Test at home. With our diagnostic excellence, we ensure that the quality of our services surpasses the customer's expectations and gives them unforgettable experiences. We follow stringent quality measures and ensure that test results are accurate and as per the NABL & ISO standards. So, without giving it a second thought, book a Cholesterol Level Test with us now.

Cholesterol Test Details In Brief:

What is the Cholesterol Test? 

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is important for good health in the right amount. Any amount low or high may result in unhealthy cholesterol levels. A cholesterol test can help detect the amount of cholesterol and certain fats in the blood. Cholesterol is also important for keeping some cells and organs healthy. 

Cholesterol has two principal components: LDL and HDL, which are bad and good cholesterol, respectively. Excessive amounts of cholesterol may increase the risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, or coronary artery disease. 

The liver directly produces the cholesterol needed in the body. However, you can get cholesterol from foods such as meat, eggs, dairy products, poultry, or food high in dietary fat. The test is popular and has several names, such as cholesterol, lipid profile, and lipid panel tests. 

Obesity, unhealthy eating, and sedentary lifestyle are major reasons for unhealthy cholesterol levels in the body. A cholesterol blood test can help you detect and prevent peripheral artery disease, stroke, or heart attack risks.

What is The Purpose of the Cholesterol Test? 

A cholesterol test is a blood test to measure the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. High cholesterol levels have no symptoms, so the test can be useful for detecting the risk of coronary artery disease. 

The test can also estimate the risks of heart attacks, heart diseases, or stroke. The serum cholesterol test calculates the total amount of four types of fats in the blood: total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein(LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. 

Total cholesterol is the sum of both LDL and HDL cholesterol in the blood. LDL cholesterol is bad cholesterol, which reduces blood flow, whereas HDL cholesterol is good cholesterol, which keeps arteries open and blood flowing. Triglycerides are fats present in the blood; high triglyceride levels show severe health risks. 

What are the Uses of The Cholesterol Test? 

The cholesterol test can be used for: 

• Detecting the risk of developing heart disease
• Providing a clear status of your health
• Measuring very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). VLDL can build plaque in the arteries. 
• Preventing risks of severe diseases, especially in women.

Reasons You May Need A Cholesterol Test:

While an imbalance in cholesterol levels often causes no noticeable signs & symptoms, some indications or risk factors suggest the need for the S Cholesterol Test. Here are a few scenarios where your doctor may advise cholesterol testing. Such as:

• Family History: Individuals with a history of high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, or stroke, maybe at higher risk of developing cholesterol problems. Therefore, regular cholesterol monitoring is essential to ensure your health remains in check.
• Age & Gender: As you age, your risk for developing cholesterol problems increases too. Therefore, measuring the levels and getting tested in time is critical to check the levels.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activities or poor lifestyle also contributes to the problem of high cholesterol and a range of health problems.
• Unhealthy Diet: If you think your diet includes food that can influence your cholesterol levels, it is essential to measure these levels and switch to a balanced diet.
• Obesity: Individuals with obesity are at high risk of developing cholesterol problems. Therefore, if you are obese, getting tested in time is critical.
• Previous Heart Issues: Individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease need to be serious about their cholesterol levels. People with existing heart problems are at higher risk of developing abnormalities in cholesterol levels and related issues.
• Existing Medical Conditions: Your doctors may suggest a serum cholesterol test for individuals with ongoing health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), and thyroid disorders, that can influence cholesterol levels.

It is critical to understand that even if you don’t have any symptoms or risk factors, getting cholesterol testing done as a part of a routine health checkup can be beneficial to assess cholesterol levels & evaluate overall health.

Your doctor may consider your risks and other factors to determine the need for a blood test for cholesterol. The test results help doctors understand your condition and guide you on the appropriate treatment & other preventive measures. So, delay no more and book blood tests for cholesterol.

Who is at Risk of Unhealthy Cholesterol? 

There are no symptoms of unhealthy cholesterol levels, but several signs indicate the risks of harmful cholesterol levels in the body. 

• Obesity 
• Sedentary lifestyle 
• Hereditary 
• Family history of heart diseases 
• High blood pressure
• Type 2 diabetes
• Smoking 
• A diet high in saturated fats 
• Lack of physical movement 

Why Can A Doctor Recommend The Cholesterol Test? 

Your doctor might recommend the cholesterol test: 

1. To check the risk of underlying heart disease, heart attack, stroke, or any issue caused by blockage of arteries. 
2. As a part of routine health check-ups to check cholesterol levels. 
3. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure and are at risk of unhealthy cholesterol levels. 
4. If you have a family history of heart disease. 
5. If you have experienced a stroke or panic attack in the past.

Top Benefits Of Cholesterol Test:

A Cholesterol Test is a blood test used to measure cholesterol levels and offers several other benefits, such as:

• Ensure Early Detection Of Cardiovascular Risk: High LDL cholesterols are often linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease development. A Cholesterol Test ensures accurate cholesterol measurements, allowing healthcare providers to suggest preventive measures to reduce your risks for heart-related problems.
• Assess Overall Cardiovascular Health: Getting a cholesterol test provides better insight into lipid parameters and gives a comprehensive picture of cardiovascular health, allowing healthcare providers to understand your heart health better & suggest safety measures accordingly.
• Help Get Control Over The Condition: Another benefit of getting tested for a cholesterol test is that it enables better management of complications & conditions.
• Identifying familial hypercholesterolemia: Lastly, getting tested in time help doctors identify individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), a genetic disorder caused by high LDL from birth. The early diagnosis enables appropriate management that reduces the risks of complications.
• Minimize Risks Of Developing Complications: Getting tested in time is the key that can help you take preventive measures to manage cholesterol levels. In addition, it may minimize the risk of developing related complications and keep you healthy.

It is essential to understand that getting tested in time is critical to determine the status of cholesterol levels, identify your risks and understand what measures can be implemented to prevent complications. So, whether you have symptoms, risks or your doctor has suggested a Cholesterol Test as a part of routine testing, book a Cholesterol Blood Test with Redcliffe Labs.

Preparations Required For Cholesterol Test:

Before a Cholesterol Test, your doctor may suggest a basic guideline that one needs to follow to ensure accurate results, such as:

• Cholesterol testing requires no fasting or specific dietary recommendations. It means you can get tested anytime, regardless of what and when you had your last meal.
• Individuals taking prescribed or non-prescribed medicines should inform their healthcare provider and follow their instructions to avoid discrepancies in the test result.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or alcohol consumption before the test, as it can influence your test results.
• Stay well-hydrated and follow all the additional instructions your healthcare provider provides (if any).

If you have any doubts or concerns, you should communicate with your healthcare provider before the test to ensure accurate results. It is your responsibility to follow all the instructions of your healthcare provider to avoid discrepancies in the test results and ensure accurate diagnosis.

Procedure Of A Cholesterol Test:

Check out the steps involved in the simple cholesterol blood test:

• A phlebotomist will ask you to sit comfortably for the examination.
• They will first clean the infected site and may ask you to make a fist to ensure that the vein is visibly located.
• After finding the vein, blood will be drawn using a sterile syringe, which may cause a little pain or discomfort during the procedure.
• Once the blood is successfully withdrawn, they will then transfer the collected blood to a sterile vial.
• They will then apply a bandage to the punctured site to prevent bleeding or secure it.

The procedure is simple and will take less time. Although safe, one may experience a little pain, bruise, or pinch at the punctured site.

Cholesterol Test Cost @ Redcliffe Labs!

Cholesterol Test Cost varies from lab to lab and city to city; however, we keep it to the minimum possible with Redcliffe Labs. Therefore, you can book Cholesterol Test with us for just Rs 150. You can book the test online and get tested from the comfort of your home. So, delay no more and book a cholesterol test with us now.

Cholesterol Test Normal Range:

Levels lesser than 200 mg/dL are considered normal.

Note: The normal range can slightly vary from lab to lab because of the test or technique used and other factors.

Understanding the Cholesterol Test Results

Cholesterol test results are measured in milligrams of cholesterol per deciliter (mg/dL) and millimoles per liter (mmoL/L). 

Normal Range By Age 

HDL cholesterol levels differ from adults. The above estimates data show the normal range by age. Above 200 mg/dL is the range that is classified as high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. 

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol 

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol 

Triglycerides 

This is an estimated risk analysis. Healthy cholesterol levels may vary based on age, family history, medical history, lifestyle, and other risks. A doctor is the best to help you understand the cholesterol test results. Low LDL and high HDL cholesterol levels are good for heart health. 

How Often Should You Take the Cholesterol Test?

The frequency of the cholesterol blood test depends on your healthcare provider’s needs. They will suggest the test based on age, family history, risks for heart disease, and sex assigned at birth. 

It is uncommon, but children should also take the cholesterol test. They should take the first test between the ages of 9 and 11, and later, they should take it every five years. 

Here is a cholesterol test breakdown as per gender and age. 

Risks Associated With The Cholesterol Test

The cholesterol test is only sometimes right. Studies found that VLDL levels are 20% of triglyceride levels, which is less accurate when triglyceride levels exceed 400 mg/dL. The cholesterol test results may indicate a false positive range in the case: 

• Improper fasting 
• Medications 
• Human error 
• Age 
• Race 
• Sex
• Pregnancy 
• Seasonal variations
• Menstrual cycle 
• Medications 
• Altitude 
• Exercise 

What Can Cause Unhealthy Cholesterol Levels? 

Cholesterol levels comprise four major components: LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. High cholesterol levels indicate no sign, so you should take the cholesterol blood test if you are obese, lead a sedentary lifestyle, follow an unhealthy diet, and have no physical activity. 

Other factors that can cause unhealthy cholesterol levels include: 

• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes 
• HIV/AIDS
• Lupus 
• Hypothyroidism
• Certain medications for 

1. Acne 

2. Cancer 

3. Irregular heart rhythms 

4. High blood pressure

5. Organ transplants. 

What Other Tests Might Your Doctor Recommend? 

Several factors can affect cholesterol test results, which can cause inaccurate results. Depending on the cholesterol blood test reports, your doctor might recommend certain tests for further detailed analysis. These are: 

• LDL cholesterol direct test 
• Cholesterol total body fluid test 
• Lipid profile test 
• HDL cholesterol test 
• Lipoprotein (A) test
• Cholesterol total body fluid test

Redcliffe Labs offers all these tests at an affordable price. We provide a home sample collection service, making it accessible for you. So, if your doctor recommends a cholesterol test or any other test, book it from us. We are an omnichannel PAN India diagnostic service provider, providing over 3600+ tests to ensure the well-being of every citizen.

To understand the test results, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Therefore, we at Redcliffe Labs, always provide free doctor consultations to discuss test reports. It may help you understand your health better and enable doctors to make informed decisions to keep your health in check.

Achieve Cholesterol Balance With These Tips:

Achieving optimal cholesterol levels is not as hard as it sounds. A few changes in diet & routine can make it possible to keep your cholesterol in control & minimize your risk of cardiovascular diseases. Here are a few simple yet effective tips that can help you in the process. However, it is not to be considered as medical advice, and for professional recommendations, it is advisable to consult a trained practitioner.

• Eat A Heart-Friendly Diet: One major thing that can help you keep your cholesterol levels in check is making smart and mindful eating choices. If you have doubts, consult your doctor and improve your dietary habits for good health.
• Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Adding an appropriate amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet can lower LDL and balance overall cholesterol levels.
• Control Portion Size: Manage calorie intake with mindful portion size to prevent weight gain and increase in cholesterol levels.
• Make Physical Activity A Part Of Your Life: Apart from that, adding regular exercise a part of your life is essential to attain optimal cholesterol levels. Besides balancing cholesterol levels, it will keep your body weight in check.
• Regularly Monitor Cholesterol Levels: Keeping track of your cholesterol levels can further help you know your status and take preventive measures as required.

These are simple tips, but before making any dietary changes in your routine, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. Seeking professional help is critical to make correct choices & get optimal benefits. Therefore, a routine Home Cholesterol Test is critical to track and manage the condition well.

Other Heart & Cholesterol Tests/Packages That You Can Book with Redcliffe Labs

Cholesterol Test Sample Report - Redcliffe Labs

Skip The Delay And Book Cholesterol Screening With Redcliffe Labs Today!

Measuring cholesterol levels in time is critical to know the status, identify abnormalities (if any) and take charge of the condition before things turn severe. So, if you are looking for a reliable diagnostic partner to book a Cholesterol Blood Test, Redcliffe Labs is a reliable name that you can trust. We promise a reliable diagnostic experience at competitive market prices. So, ditch the guessing game and book diagnosis for accurate screening.