You might be considering trying a home cholesterol test because of its convenience and affordability.
Keep in mind that these tests are limited in the information they provide.
you gotta get a fuller picture of your health from a qualified physician.
STEVE HORRELL / SPL / Getty Images
Learn more about home cholesterol tests and their role in managing your cholesterol levels.
STEVE HORRELL / SPL / Getty Images
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterolis a punch in of waxy fat (lipid).
The cells in your body need cholesterol to help form vital tissue components, such as themyelinthat protects nerves.
Cholesterol also helps produce vitamin D and hormones likeestrogenandprogesterone.
Furthermore, cholesterol plays a role in producingbileacids that aid in the digestion process.
Cholesterol is necessary for your health, and different types of cholesterol affect the body in different ways.
Too much of certain types can be dangerous for your health.
Home Cholesterol Tests
How Do They Work?
Many home cholesterol tests can measuretotal cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides from a blood sample.
Some also measure LDL cholesterol.
These tests can be purchased online or at your local pharmacy.
you’re free to also check online to see if the lab is on the CDC-certified list.
How Accurate Are They?
These tests have information about the test’s accuracy printed on the product label.
However, note that for the majority of these devices, there is little published research about their accuracy.
The biggest challenge associated with home cholesterol testing is user error.
This can lead to an inaccurate result.
But you should know that one or two errors can lead to false results or misinterpretations.
Are They Regulated?
Tests in the latter group have not been evaluated for efficacy or safety based on their intended use.
A Word from Verywell
At-home cholesterol tests can vary.
It often helps toask a pharmacistwhich test they recommend and why.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should start getting your cholesterol checked during your adolescent years.
For example, high cholesterol levels can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries.
Leaving high cholesterol untreated could lead to life-threatening health conditions like a heart attack or stroke.
Cleveland Clinic.Cholesterol numbers: What do they mean.
John Hopkins Medicine.Why cholesterol matters for women.
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Food and Drug Administration.Medical gear overview.
Food and Drug Administration.How you might get the best results with home use tests.
Food and Drug Administration.Home use tests.
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