When should I have my cholesterol checked?
"When should you have your cholesterol checked." There is not a single, one answer fits all reply to this question Simply put, it depends. Experts recommend, and it is now accepted practice, that all adults over the age of 20 have their cholesterol measured at least once every five years. Depending on the results and your overall risk (cholesterol levels and other risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.) for heart disease, your cholesterol should be checked every 1 to 5 years. Most likely, your doctor will work with you on a schedule to monitor your cholesterol level. If you wish to learn more about how your cholesterol is checked, go back to the FAQ and consult the “how is cholesterol measured” question. Your doctor will be interested in learning your total cholesterol, your LDL “bad” cholesterol, triglycerides, and your HDL “good” cholesterol. Whenever you have an appointment to have your cholesterol checked, never miss this opportunity. Other, more simple ways to monitor your cholesterol, such as home monitors and pharmacy tests also exist, however they do not offer the wide range of analysis and precision that a hospital run test can provide. Depending on your situation, your results will either be sent to your home or you will be requested to collect them. Your doctor will discuss your results with you and decide upon the necessary measures to take in order to protect your health, if necessary.
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