Lipid Profiles Testing in Newington, NH
Lipid profiles measure the amount of fatty substances traveling in the blood. Cholesterol and triglycerides are examples of lipids. The human body needs lipids to function properly, but poor diet and some medical conditions can cause these fats to increase and could put you at risk for serious health risks.
If you have higher than normal lipid levels you could be at higher risk for conditions like heart disease, heart attack, or stroke. Your risk is higher because bad lipids can stick to the inside of the vessels that carry blood to the heart. These lipids can reduce blood flow to the heart or cause it to stop altogether and cause a heart attack. Pieces of the lipids may also break loose and land in other parts of the body, like the brain, causing a stroke.
You may need a lipid profile for several reasons:
- As a part of your regular annual check-up
- To monitor the effectiveness of medicines that lower lipid levels
- To assess your risk for heart disease or heart attack
Is it time for your lipid profile? Call (207) 536-9661 or contact Vibrant Health Naturopathic Medical Center online.
Preparing for Your Lipid Profile Test
Depending on the type of lipid profile test you are having, you may not be able to eat beforehand. Ask your medical provider if you should fast. If you are required to fast, make sure you do not eat or drink anything except water for 9-12 hours before the test. You can have water and you can take your medicines the morning of your test. Your lipid profile test will be scheduled early in the morning so you don't have to go all day without eating.
Some other tips to keep in mind when preparing:
- Avoid eating high-fat foods the night before your test
- Do not drink alcohol or exercise very hard before your test
- Mention any medications, herbs or vitamins you are taking.
- Tell your medical staff if you have had any nuclear medicine tests (like a thyroid or bone scan) within a week of your lipid profile
To complete the lipid profile, blood will be collected from your arm. The test only takes a couple of minutes to complete and only a small amount of blood is needed. Your results will be ready in less than 24 hours, but you may need to wait until your follow up appointment to get them. The test can be done in your healthcare provider's office or you may need to visit your hospital laboratory.
What are Normal Lipid Levels?
For normal healthy adults, total cholesterol levels should be less than 200. Levels over 240 are considered high. Triglycerides should be less than 150 and are considered high if they are over 200. You can control lipid levels with medications prescribed by your healthcare provider and with exercise and a healthy diet. If your lipid levels are high or borderline, you will be instructed on what to do next.
Schedule your Lipid Profile Today
You can protect your heart and your health. Call (207) 536-9661 or contact Vibrant Health Naturopathic Medical Center online today to find out more about your lipid profile.
Vibrant Health Naturopathic Medical Center
Address
3 Riverside DriveGreenland, NH 03840
(207) 536-9661
www.vibranthealthnaturalmedicine.com
Hours
Mon:
8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Tue:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wed:
10:30 am - 5:00 pm
Thu:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Fri:
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Sat:
Closed
Sun:
Closed