We are only able to provide blood tests to persons over the age of 18
All blood draws are performed by trained phlebotomists
Cholesterol Blood Test
6 Biomarkers (2-4 days*)
£65
A Cholesterol blood test measures the levels of different types of cholesterol and fats (lipids) in your blood. It helps assess your risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke.
Here are the biomarkers measured during a Cholesterol blood test:
- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol: Often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, high levels can lead to plaque build-up in arteries.
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol: Known as “good” cholesterol, high levels can help protect against heart disease.
- Non-HDL Cholesterol: Its considered a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk, often providing a clearer picture of risk than LDL cholesterol alone, especially in individuals with metabolic syndrome or diabetes.
- Total Cholesterol: Measures the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood.
- Total Cholesterol to HDL ratio: Its a measure used to assess cardiovascular risk by comparing the total cholesterol level in the blood to the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. This ratio helps evaluate the balance between “good” cholesterol (HDL) and overall cholesterol, providing insight into heart disease risk.
- Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood. High levels can increase the risk of heart disease.
Here are some red flag symptoms that may prompt the need for a Cholesterol blood test include:
- Chest Pain: Persistent or recurring chest pain or discomfort, which may indicate angina or heart disease.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless, especially during physical activities or while resting.
- Unexplained Fatigue: Extreme or unusual tiredness that is not related to physical exertion or a known illness.
- Heart Palpitations: Irregular or rapid heartbeats that are noticeable and persistent.
- Swelling in the Legs or Feet: Edema or swelling, which can be associated with poor circulation or heart issues.
- High Blood Pressure: Elevated blood pressure readings that are not well controlled with lifestyle changes or medication.
- Family History of Heart Disease: A family history of heart disease, stroke, or high cholesterol, especially if there are other risk factors present.
- Obesity or Unexplained Weight Gain: Significant weight gain or obesity, which increases the risk of high cholesterol and heart disease.
- Yellowish Bumps on the Skin: Xanthomas, which are yellowish deposits of cholesterol that can appear on the skin, particularly around the eyes or elbows.
- Stroke Symptoms: Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, or sudden vision changes, which can be related to poor cholesterol management.
Understanding your cholesterol levels in conjunction with other health factors helps guide effective prevention and treatment strategies for cardiovascular health.
IMPORTANT
You do not need to completely fast for this blood test but you should avoid eating fatty foods for at least 8 hours before you take the test.
PREPARATION
- Drink plenty of water about an hour before the appointment.
- Avoid coffee/tea/energy drinks.
*Turnaround time
The tests take time to be delivered, prepared and analysed, therefore the turnaround time varies from test-to-test