High cholesterol doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms, so screenings are the only way to detect it. All healthy adults should have their cholesterol checked periodically.
Cholesterol is checked using a lipid profile
A lipid profile, also known as a lipid panel or complete cholesterol test, measures four types of fat:
- Total cholesterol The overall amount of cholesterol in your blood.
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol The “bad” type of cholesterol that reduces blood flow by creating fat deposits in your arteries.
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol The “good” type of cholesterol that helps blood flow by carrying excess cholesterol back to the liver.
- Triglycerides Fats created from calories that your body doesn’t need to use right away.
When to get a cholesterol test
If you have normal cholesterol levels, testing is recommended every five years until age 45, then every 1-2 years until age 65, then annually. A doctor may recommend more frequent tests if you:
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