Lipid Profile

A lipid profile test measures the levels of lipids in your blood which include:

• Triglycerides
• Total cholesterol
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol

By measuring the levels of these lipids a doctor can determine your risk of heart disease and decide upon a treatment plan for you.

Why Is A Lipid Profile Test Conducted?

Your healthcare professional will recommend you get a lipid profile test if your body is showing symptoms of high cholesterol level. These symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Extreme fatigue
• Numbness in your extremities
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in back, jaw, back or upper abdomen

It is also recommended if your body is at risk of having a high cholesterol level. Factors which can cause high cholesterol levels include:

• Unhealthy diet
• Family history of heart disease
• Obesity
• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Cigarette smoking
• Age (if you are a older than 45 years)

The test is also done to keep a check on unhealthy lipid levels while you are undergoing a treatment to maintain them.

When Should I Get A Lipid Profile Test?

As previously mentioned a lipid profile test is recommended to people whose bodies are showing symptoms of or at risk of getting high cholesterol levels.

A lipid profile screening is also recommended to people who have no risk factors at certain intervals as a part of routine checkups. For adults above 45 years of age it should be done every three to six years. Incase of kids and young adults it should be done between the ages of 9 and 11 and again between the ages of 17 and 21.

Lipid Profile Test Procedure

A lipid profile test is performed by collecting a blood sample by inserting a needle into a vein on your arm. At times a fingerstick sample is also collected by puncturing the skin on a fingertip using a portable testing device.

Lipid Profile Test Normal Range

A lipid profile test measures cholesterol level in the blood. The results are shown in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and differ based on the type of cholesterol. The normal ranges are given below:

• Total cholesterol: < 200 mg/dL
• HDL cholesterol: 40 - 60 mg/dL
• LDL cholesterol: 70 - 130 mg/dL
• Triglycerides: 10 - 150 mg/dL

How Can You Read The Results Of A Lipid Profile Test?

The results from the tests are contingent on the age, gender, medical history, etc. So, it is best to take the findings to your doctor and wait on their professional opinion. They will, according to your condition, prescribe interventions. High lipid levels endanger the heart and thus overall health.

What Are The Risks Of A Lipid Profile Test?

The risks associated with lipid profile tests are similar to those of any blood test. These include:

• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Infection
• Lightheadedness
• Pain
• Soreness

How Long Does It Take To Get The Lipid Profile Test Results?

The results from lipid profile tests tend to take 1-2 days.

Lipid Profile Test Price In Pakistan

The price of lipid profile test in Pakistan is around Rs. 1900 - 2400. The price can vary depending on the lab you choose. However, on oladoc you can avail discounts on lab tests as well.