Why is this procedure done?
This test is done to find out the amount of triglycerides in your blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood and often come from fatty or starchy foods that you eat. Your body uses them for energy. After you eat, your body changes extra energy into fat. Then, it can be stored for later use. If your triglyceride level is too high, you are at risk for heart disease. ‚
Your doctor orders this test to: ‚
- Check for your risk of developing heart disease
- See how well your treatment is working
- Look for triglyceride levels that are too high
- Go along with other tests in a lipid panel
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test and what is normal. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are normal, it means you are eating the right balance of fatty or starchy foods in your diet to your body to process.
- If the results are not normal, you may have to change your diet, exercise, and lose weight. Your doctor may order more tests to learn more about what is wrong.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
- Normal results for adults are triglycerides lower than 150 mg/dL or 1.7 mmol/L.
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.
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 when the needle is inserted to draw the blood. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood for triglyceride 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.
- You may be asked to put pressure with your other hand where the needle was in your arm. 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. This test will help your doctor find out if you are at risk for heart disease. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
If you have a high level of triglyceride in your blood, you may still be able to lower it by doing these: ‚
- Exercise. Talk to your doctor about the right amount of activity for you.
- Stop smoking. Ask your doctor about ways you can quit smoking.
- Eat five servings of vegetables and fruits a day. Cut the fat from your meat and eat whole grain breads and cereals. Avoid greasy, processed foods or foods that are high in fat.
Your doctor may ask you to take some drugs to help you lower your triglyceride level. 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/triglycerides/tab/glance ‚
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. ‚