Home Cholesterol Test: It May Be Faster, But Is It Better?

blood test

Identifying cholesterol imbalance early will allow you to make appropriate amendments to your diet and the lifestyle you lead in order to reduce your risk of getting heart disease. There are two types of cholesterol tests: self-collection and laboratory-based. The most popular home cholesterol test is available in pharmacies and other drug stores. This device is convenient and accurate, and it’s cheaper than going to a doctor’s office for a checkup. The tests are easy to use and can be done in as little as three steps and you can collect a blood sample at the comfort of your home.

Performing a Home Cholesterol Test

The test comes with detailed instructions to make it simple for anyone to perform. Using a self-collection home cholesterol test, you’ll need to prick your finger. The lancet will draw blood from your blood, which you’ll place on the test card.

Most at-home cholesterol tests are highly accurate and are approved by health institutions. There are several factors to consider when choosing a home test kit. The at-home cholesterol test should check for total cholesterol and its breakdown. There are different types of at-home tests, some of which give results within minutes, and others that require you to mail a sample to a lab. A home cholesterol test can be used to monitor your cholesterol levels without a visit to the doctor. Unlike lab tests, at-home tests are much more convenient and cost-effective. These kits can be ordered online or from a local pharmacy.

When it comes to cholesterol levels, a home test will help you understand your risk factors and identify any problems. While your doctor will likely perform the test, it is not always accurate. It’s best to have your doctor’s approval before attempting to take the test at home. It’s important to follow the instructions on the kit. It’s essential to read the instructions carefully before taking the test. You should only use the results as a guide.

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Who Should Get Cholesterol Tests?

Since anyone can have high cholesterol; high levels may be a result of your genetics or lifestyle and can often display no symptoms. That is why it is recommended to check your cholesterol levels even if you are young and relatively healthy, as you never know what signs you are missing and what health problems you are failing to notice. It is actually recommended to have your blood drawn every six months to monitor cholesterol levels, especially for people in the risk group. People with a family history of heart disease, who are overweight/obese, drink and smoke regularly, lead a sedentary lifestyle or have diabetes are at an increased risk and should get tested.

When you get an at-home test, you should pay attention to the label and what the instructions say. You should remember that the results of an at-home cholesterol test are more reliable if they are traced to a government-approved laboratory.

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Final Words

Whether you’re in the mood to take a cholesterol test at home or rely on the results from a physician, both options are absolutely fine. Just remember, a home cholesterol test can provide you with the information you need at a much cheaper rate and it will take less time and hassle. A lot of people find it difficult to take their own blood sample, and this is the only downside. A good at-home cholesterol test can give you an accurate reading without a doctor’s visit. Its results will be compared with an accepted range of levels and your doctor’s diagnosis.