Did you know the fact that over half of the adults in the UK have high cholesterol? High blood cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. That’s why, it’s important for every UK citizen to know his/her cholesterol levels.
Getting a test for cholesterol is the only way you will know if you have high cholesterol or not. Talk to your GPs about the test and when is the right time to get it done. GPs in the UK use different guidelines to decide when a person should have a cholesterol test. Most of the times, your GP might suggest a test based on your age or the risk factors for your heart disease.
The following should be followed before a cholesterol test:
Do not eat before the test: Anyone at any stage of life can opt for a cholesterol test. The only important thing one needs to keep in mind is he/she should fast for at least 8 to 12 hours before the test. This is because some foods, especially fatty foods, can affect the results of some components of the test. If your cholesterol levels are not within a healthy range, your GP may recommend you a low-fat diet and lifestyle changes, or suggest you to take some cholesterol-lowering medication.
How often one should get tested: How often you should get a cholesterol test depends on your cholesterol level, other health problems, and overall chances of heart disease. Usually adults are advised to go for blood cholesterol level checks in every 5 years. If the levels are found high, their GP might prescribe some medication to reduce the cholesterol and suggest a low-cholesterol diet.
Cholesterol testing at home: Do you know you can get your cholesterol levels checked at home. Devices available in pharmacies and online drug stores make it an easy procedure at home. This allows you to save yourself from sitting around in a doctor’s waiting room or laboratory for hours. All you have to do is put a few drops of blood onto a test strip or a small well, and the results are generated within a few minutes.
If you are looking for test kits, medication or advice on high cholesterol online, The Online Surgery is the best place you. Our GPs are available to guide you in the best possible manner. If your tests confirm you have high cholesterol levels, our GPs might advise you medication such as Bezafibrate, Ezetrol, Atorvastatin, etc. as per the suitability. In addition, they will also advise you how frequently you need to check your cholesterol level.