There are no symptoms associated with high cholesterol, so you may not be aware that you have it.
Cholesterol is measured by a blood test called a lipoprotein profile. You can just ask your doctor for a cholesterol test. When you receive the results of your cholesterol test, these are the four numbers that will be listed:
Total cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
High-density lipoprotein (HDL)
Triglycerides
Your doctor will be able to explain your results, and will tell you what your cholesterol goal should be.
In order to accurately measure the cholesterol levels in your blood you will have to fast (go without eating or drinking anything) for 9 to 12 hours before taking the test.
If you are not able to fast, your doctor can still measure your total cholesterol and HDL levels. However, the test may not be as accurate in measuring your LDL level.
