Lipid Profile

The Lipid Profile helps measure and monitor the amount of total cholesterol (fats) in the body. This profile is used to determine your overall cardiovascular health, especially if you have risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It is usually done as part of routine health checkups.

Lipids are the fats your body uses as a source of energy. They are essential for proper body functioning, but their high levels can lead to cardiovascular and heart complications. The Lipid Profile is a standard blood test used to assess the health of your cardiovascular system and aid in diagnosing and managing lipid disorders. This test measures different lipids in your blood, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides, total cholesterol, etc.

The lipid panel test helps detect high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) or low cholesterol (hypolipidemia) levels. Hyperlipidemia is a condition in which your blood contains excessive amounts of lipids that can lead to plaque buildup (fats and cholesterol) in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. The signs and symptoms may not be evident until a significant blockage or a heart event occurs. Hypolipidemia, while less common, is a condition where your blood does not contain enough lipids, potentially leading to issues with nerve function and an increased risk of infections. 

You need to fast for 8-12 hours overnight for these tests. Fasting means you don't eat or drink anything but water for 8 to 12 hours. Ideally, you should do these tests in the morning, sleeping overnight will help the food to be digested and metabolized. You also shouldn't smoke, chew gum (even sugarless), or exercise. These things affect your digestion, and can alter your results. Consuming alcohol or fatty foods 24 hours prior to specimen collection can increase serum triglycerides. Some medications and supplements may also skew cholesterol results. Take your prescription medications unless your doctor tells you to skip them. Letting your doctor know about all your current medications and supplements is highly advised before any blood tests.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them evaluate your medical condition, make diet, exercise, or medication recommendations, and formulate an overall treatment plan.