Cholesterol Test
Code : CHO Turnaround time: 4 Days- Same Day Appointments
- Free Cancellation
Prices listed on the website are exclusive of our phlebotomy (blood draw) fee.
A blood draw fee of £50 is payable for blood tests, urine tests and swabs carry no surcharge.
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Understanding cholesterol testing
This straightforward blood test takes only a few minutes but is vital for maintaining your health. If left unchecked, high cholesterol levels can increase the likelihood of suffering a stroke or developing cardiovascular diseases.
Unlike many standard cholesterol tests that only measure your overall cholesterol level, Private Blood Tests London offers a comprehensive cholesterol breakdown. This detailed profile allows us to help you prevent or manage potential health issues more effectively.
Cholesterol is a fatty, wax-like substance found in the cells of our body. Contrary to widespread belief, cholesterol isn’t inherently harmful. It serves essential functions, such as maintaining cell membrane flexibility and strength, aiding the skin in producing vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, and assisting the liver in creating bile for digesting and absorbing fats. However, problems arise when excessive amounts of hypercholesterolemia accumulate—which can pose serious health risks.
How cholesterol testing works
A cholesterol test measures the level of cholesterol in your bloodstream. At Private Blood Test London, we provide a full cholesterol profile, indicating whether you need lifestyle adjustments such as dietary changes and increased physical activity or medical intervention.
Your total cholesterol comprises two key types:
- HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein): Known as “good cholesterol,” high levels of HDL help protect against heart disease.
Additionally, we measure triglycerides—the chemical form of fat used for energy and other bodily functions. Elevated triglycerides can also contribute to life-threatening conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Knowing your levels is crucial for maintaining overall health.
- LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” elevated levels significantly increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.
Symptoms of elevated cholesterol levels
High cholesterol is often referred to as a “silent condition” because it typically presents no symptoms for many years. That’s why regular testing is essential. However, certain signs may indicate elevated cholesterol levels, including:
- Frequent headaches.
- Chest pain or angina.
- Yellowish patches or deposits around the eyes.
- Shortness of breath.
- Fatigue or feeling easily tired.
Other possible symptoms include difficulty digesting fatty foods, numbness in extremities, memory issues or cognitive decline, and, in some cases, erectile dysfunction.
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Elevated cholesterol causes
Several factors can lead to high levels of cholesterol, including:
- Lifestyle Habits: consuming excessive alcohol and smoking can raise your level of cholesterol greatly and contribute to other severe health conditions.
- Diet: eating foods rich in cholesterol, trans fat, and saturated fats—such as baked goods, fried foods, full-fat dairy products, and red meat—can raise cholesterol levels.
- Genetics: Familial hypercholesterolemia, a hereditary condition, can result in high cholesterol, irrespective of your lifestyle.
- Lack of Exercise: Regular physical activity helps reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol and increase “good” HDL cholesterol. Inactivity increases the risk of high cholesterol.
Testing procedures
Type of sample taken: Blood.
Getting ready for your test
You may be asked to fast for 9 to 12 hrs prior to the test, although drinking water is permitted for hydration. Inform your medical practitioner about any treatment you are undergoing, as some medications can affect your cholesterol level. Your medical practitioner will advise you to continue or temporarily pause specific medications before the test.
Testing process
The cholesterol test involves a simple blood draw, typically from your arm’s vein. Our medical practitioner will clean the area carefully, followed by needle insertion, and collect a small blood sample.
You might feel a little sting or pinch as they insert the needle, but discomfort is minimal and short. The entire procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
Receiving your result
Once we have processed your result, it will be emailed to you. If you had a consultation with one of our medical practitioners, we will contact you to discuss the results and any vital follow-up steps.
If you underwent the test without a consultation, you can choose to take the results to your GP or book an appointment with us for further interpretation and guidance.
Take Charge of Your Health Today
Don’t leave your heart health to chance. Contact us at Private Blood Test London to book your cholesterol test today. Taking this step can help prevent serious health issues and ensure peace of mind.
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How Private Blood Tests London Works
Order your test
Select the test that you would like to undergo
Provide your sample
Go to the Harley Street clinic for your blood draw and pay for your test in person
View your results
As soon as the results are ready, the will be sent to you by your chosen method
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