The landscape of human health is vast. Lipids are vital as they regulate bodily functions and essential components. Their value is immeasurable as they provide energy that the body stores in expansive reserves and help structure cell membranes. Due to their importance in the body, balance in lipids is crucial. If lipids are imbalanced, they would result in health complications, such as cardiovascular diseases.
Understanding the lipid profile through a comprehensive assessment of various lipid levels in the bloodstream clarifies that it should be paramount.
Fortunately, one way to know the state of your body’s lipids is through the lipid profile and panel. A lipid profile and panel is a blood test that healthcare providers use to monitor the probability of cardiovascular diseases. This may also include heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.
What Is A Lipid Profile
In summary, the lipid profile is a test that summarizes and measures the levels of each type of fat in the blood.
Components of the Lipid Profile
The following are included in the Lipid Profile test:
- Total cholesterol – Total cholesterol refers to the overall cholesterol level, which sums up LDL-C, VLDL-C, and HDL-C.
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) collects in the blood vessels and is known as bad cholesterol.
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol – Known as “good cholesterol,” it helps lessen the buildup of LDL in the blood vessels.
- Triglycerides – Known as a type of fat from the food we eat. Excess triglycerides are linked to pancreatic inflammation and cardiovascular disease.
How Fasting Lipid Profile Test is Conducted
A blood sample is a must for the test.
Preparation For Fasting Lipid Profile
To prepare for your fasting lipid profile test, you can do the following:
- Book and pay for your lipid panel test.
- You can only drink water for 8 to 12 hours and not eat any food. Many people only take the test in the morning, so it doesn’t interrupt their meals.
During the Fasting Lipid Profile Test
The process for lipid panel blood test diagnosis is the following:
- Most lipid tests involve taking blood samples through another process. This process involves inserting a needle into an arm vein.
- An elastic band will be put around your upper arm. The act boosts the blood in your veins.
- Your blood is then drawn for less than a minute. You may feel stinging, but it will be temporary.
- An antiseptic will be applied to the puncture to be cleaned.
- A cotton swab or adhesive will be put where blood is drawn. Keep it on for an hour to prevent
Role Of Lipid Profiles In Assessing Cardiovascular Risk Factors
The lipid profile test process is necessary because it reviews your risk level of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. In particular, bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) in both high and low HDL cholesterol amounts can indicate the increased possibility of cardiovascular disease.
Importance Of The Lipid Profile Test
- Screening – Screening the state of their cardiovascular health is highly recommended for men aged thirty-five years and older and women aged twenty to forty-five, especially if they are susceptible to cardiovascular disease. If you are not at risk for heart disease, once every five years is a good time for screening. The recommendation for a lipid test can also depend on your situation.
- Early detection of lipid abnormalities for preventive healthcare – A lipid profile and panel test can help you screen early for lipid abnormalities. If your body has any, you can treat them early and thus live a fuller, longer life.
- Empowerment through knowledge for proactive health management – A test can help you make better decisions about managing your health.
The Lipid Profile Test is also part of annual check-ups, such as Urinalysis, and Pre-employment medical check-ups.
Timely And Accurate Lipid Profile Blood Test Results With Medi Linx and Makati Medical Center’s Partnership
Lipids are crucial in our daily bodily function, as they give energy to the muscles that allow us to function and perform mundane daily tasks. However, if lipids are imbalanced, we become more vulnerable to heart and cardiovascular conditions. For those at risk, especially since some diseases tend to be hereditary, it is highly recommended that lipid profile testing be prioritized. That way, you can make conscious decisions that allow you to live to the fullest!
Makati Medical Center is a tertiary hospital in Makati known for its decades of medical innovation and compassionate care to its patients. It is committed to providing excellent healthcare service, strengthened by its partnership with Medi Linx Laboratory. Empower yourself by booking a lipid profile test with us today!
