How Do You Read Cholesterol Test Results?
During your next annual physical, your doctor may request blood work to determine your cholesterol levels. This is just one of the ways he may assess your risk for heart disease. Learning how to read and understand your cholesterol test results will get you on the right track towards a healthier lifestyle. Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss the state of your health and request that he perform a fasting lipid panel to determine your cholesterol levels. Refrain from eating or drinking anything other than water for at least 12 hours before your blood is drawn. Even consuming coffee or other caffeinated beverages may affect the accuracy of your blood work, so eliminate your morning coffee on that day. Wait 1 to 2 weeks for your results. You may ask that a copy of your results be mailed to you for your records. Read the figures on your lipid panel results. These include your total cholesterol, your LDL level or low-density lipoprotein, your HDL level or high-density lipoprotein
