Cholesterol Test

Cholesterol test differs from other tests as it is not used to diagnose or monitor a disease rather it is used to estimate the risk of developing a disease most especially heart disease as high cholesterol has been associated with the hardening of the arteries. This test has been considered a routine part of preventive health care.

The result for cholesterol test is grouped in three categories of risk:

Desirable
This involves a cholesterol level lower than 200 mg/dL (5.18 mmol/L) and is considered desirable as it reflects lower risk of heart disease.

Borderline High
Involves a cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL – 240 mg/dL (5.18 mmol/L – 6.22 mmol/L) and is considered to reflect moderate risk.

High Risk
Involves a cholesterol level higher than 240 mg/dL (6.22 mmol/L) and is considered a high risk.
To get accurate result for the cholesterol test, you should not eat nor drink anything for 9 -12 hours before the test. Water may be taken but not other beverages such as juice, coffee, tea or soda.

Your may also be told by your health care provider to stop taking drugs that may affect the result of the test. As a precaution though, never stop taking any medication without first consulting your doctor about it.

These drugs may increase the total cholesterol measurements: ACTH, Anabolic steroid, Beta-adrenergic blocking agents, Corticosteroids, Epinephrine, Birth control pills, Phenytoin, Sulfonamides, Thiazide diuretics, Vitamin D.

On the other hand, these drugs may decrease the total cholesterol measurements: Allopurinol, Androgens, Captopril, Chloropropamide, Colchicine, Colestipol, Erythromycin, Fibrates, Isoniazid, MAO inhibitors, Neomycin, Niacin, Nitrate, and Statin

It is recommended that those age 20 and above have a complete cholesterol and triglycerides analysis at least once every five years.