Cholesterol test near me
in Dorchester, MA

Cholesterol Test FAQs

• Do I need to see a doctor before getting a cholesterol test in Dorchester?

  A cholesterol test is often a simple blood test. While you do not need to see a doctor first, it is a good idea to call your doctor's office and ask about the type of test that will be performed. This is because some cholesterol tests need you to fast before taking them.

• How much do cholesterol tests cost in Dorchester?

  A cholesterol test's price is determined by several factors, including the type of test required, the location where the test is administered, and whether or not you have health insurance. For example, a cholesterol test at a walk-in clinic or drugstore could cost around $100.

• Does insurance cover cholesterol screening?

  Cholesterol testing is commonly performed as part of a yearly physical exam, which is usually covered by insurance. Your insurance plan, on the other hand, may place limitations on cholesterol testing. They might pay for a cholesterol test every five years, for example. You can find out what your policy covers by calling your insurance carrier or looking at your policy papers.

• How can you tell if you have high cholesterol without a test?

  High cholesterol has no visible indications or symptoms. The only way to know if you have high cholesterol is to have a blood test. Over the age of 35 and 45, men and women should get their cholesterol levels examined. You may be at risk for high cholesterol if you have a BMI of 30 or more, don't get enough exercise, smoke, drink too much alcohol, or consume too much saturated or trans fat.

• What can I eat the night before a cholesterol test?

  You should avoid eating or drinking anything other than water the night before your cholesterol test if your doctor has recommended you to fast. If your doctor has not recommended you to fast, you can eat and drink normally. Consult your doctor if you're unsure whether or not you should fast.

• How long should I fast before a cholesterol test?

  Most people must fast for 9 to 12 hours before taking a cholesterol test. Fasting for at least 12 hours prior to your test will assist ensure that a single meal has no impact on your results. All cholesterol tests do not require fasting, so check with your doctor and make sure you follow their instructions.

• How do I interpret cholesterol blood test results?

  A cholesterol test measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol. There may also be triglycerides and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol should be low, whereas HDL cholesterol should be high. Inquiring with your doctor for assistance in interpreting your results is always a good idea. High total cholesterol may be caused by a higher HDL level, which is actually good. It's vital to understand how your test findings are broken down.

• What is a normal cholesterol range?

  The unit of measurement for cholesterol is milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Adults with total cholesterol levels less than 200 mg/dL are generally considered healthy. Blood sugar levels of 240 mg/dL are considered dangerously high. LDL cholesterol levels should be under 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). 160 mg/dL of LDL cholesterol is considered high. HDL levels should be at least 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Low HDL levels of 40 mg/dL or below are linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

• How can I book a cholesterol test through Solv?

  With Solv, scheduling a cholesterol test is simple. Simply type "cholesterol" into the search box, and when the cholesterol test option appears, select it. You can choose to use an existing location or create a new one. You'll discover a list of providers in your area, as well as available appointment times, on the next page. To schedule an appointment, select a time and location that is convenient for you and fill out the form.

• Can I do an at home cholesterol testing in Dorchester?

  At-home cholesterol testing are possible, but they aren't necessarily accurate or reliable. Pricking your finger with a lancet and transferring a few drops of blood to a test strip are the most common methods for at-home cholesterol testing. Unfortunately, if these tests aren't done appropriately, they can be inaccurate. Furthermore, they usually only measure total cholesterol, which isn't as useful as knowing how your LDL and HDL cholesterol are distributed. For the best results, have the test performed by a certified healthcare provider.