Why is this procedure done?
This test checks the levels of one kind of fat in your blood. LDL stands for low density lipoprotein. It is sometimes called the bad cholesterol. LDL cholesterol leaves extra cholesterol in the walls of your blood vessels. This can block or narrow your blood vessel and lead to heart problems or stroke. ‚
Your LDL levels are most often based on your total cholesterol, HDL, and triglyceride levels. Your doctor may order this test to: ‚
- Check for risk factors for heart problems
- Screen for health problems
- Check how your treatment is working
- Go along with other tests like a total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides
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What will the results be?
Talk with your doctor about your test results. LDL levels can be higher due to eating many high-fat foods in your diet or a family history of high LDL levels in blood. Higher levels of LDL cholesterol increase your risk for heart disease and stroke. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor may ask you not to eat or drink anything for 9 to 12 hours before the test. Water is OK.
- Be sure to tell the doctor about all the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Some drugs can change your test results. You may be asked to stop taking a drug before you have your test.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or have been sick. Your test may have to wait.
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a little pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood for cholesterol levels. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test
- Put pressure with your other hand where the needle was. This will help with bruising and bleeding.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
Your doctor may suggest you: ‚
- Exercise. Talk to your doctor about the right amount of activity for you.
- Stop smoking. Ask about what steps to take to stop smoking.
- Eat healthy, low fat foods.
Your doctor may ask you to take some drugs to help you lower your cholesterol. Talk to your doctor about these and other choices you may have. ‚
What problems could happen?
Minor risks include: ‚
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Feeling dizzy
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/cholesterol/tab/test ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚