Total Cholesterol Test Overview

What is the Total Cholesterol Test?

The Total Cholesterol Test measures the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood, including HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol), and VLDL fractions. Cholesterol is essential for building cell membranes and producing certain hormones, but abnormal levels can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.

High cholesterol levels may be associated with atherosclerosis, obesity, diabetes, or lifestyle factors, while unusually low levels can sometimes indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or hyperthyroidism. Monitoring cholesterol is essential for assessing cardiovascular risk, guiding lifestyle interventions, and evaluating the effectiveness of medications like statins.

This test is commonly recommended for adults during routine health check-ups or for those with risk factors such as family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity. Early detection of imbalances allows timely dietary changes, treatment, and preventive measures to protect heart health.

Why Take the Total Cholesterol Test?

This test is recommended if you:

• Have a family history of heart disease or stroke

• Are overweight, have diabetes, or high blood pressure

• Follow a high-fat diet or have sedentary lifestyle habits

• Want to monitor the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering treatments

• Need a routine cardiovascular risk assessment

How is the Total Cholesterol Test Carried Out?

• A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm.

• The sample is analyzed in the lab to determine total cholesterol levels and subfractions.

• The procedure is quick and minimally uncomfortable.

How do I Prepare for the Total Cholesterol Test?

• Fasting: Fast for 8–12 hours before the test; water is allowed.

• Activity: No special restrictions, but avoid strenuous exercise immediately before the test.

• Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements that may affect cholesterol levels.

Next Steps

If cholesterol levels are abnormal, your doctor may:

• Recommend dietary adjustments (reducing saturated fats, increasing fiber intake)

• Suggest regular physical activity and lifestyle changes

• Prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications if necessary

• Monitor cholesterol periodically to track progress and reduce cardiovascular risk

Why Choose Docty Labs?

✅ NABL-Certified Testing Centres
✅ On-time, Accurate Reports
✅ 100% Digital Reports Available
✅ Affordable Lab Tests & Membership Discounts
✅ Hygienic, Safe, and Convenient Home Sample Collection
✅ Free Teleconsultation with Experienced Doctors from Docty Clinics
✅ Trusted by Doctors and Families Across India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the Total Cholesterol Test?
  It measures the total cholesterol in your blood to assess cardiovascular risk.

• Is fasting required?
  Yes, fasting for 8–12 hours is recommended for accurate results.

• Can the test be done at home?
  Yes, Docty Labs offers safe home blood sample collection.

• Is the test safe?
  Yes, it is a quick, minimally invasive procedure.

• How soon will I get results?
  Usually within 6 hours.

• Does Docty offer discounts on the Total Cholesterol Test?
  Docty Labs offer an additional 20% discount on labs with an annual membership plan.

• How can I book the Total Cholesterol Test?
  Book online by clicking “Add to Cart” or call your nearest Docty Lab. Home collection is available in select cities.