Making the Diagnosis
If there's a likelihood that you have high cholesterol, your doctor will
order a simple blood test to check your cholesterol level. These tests usually
measure your total cholesterol level as well as your levels of LDL and HDL.
You may need to fast before your blood test (no food or drink except water for
12 hours before the test).
As part of this screening process, your doctor may give you a physical exam
and ask you about your diet and medical conditions in your personal and family
history. Your doctor will also check for other risk factors you may have for
heart disease.
Risk factors for heart disease include:
- personal or family history of heart disease
- smoking
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- high LDL cholesterol
- low HDL cholesterol
- age
- obesity
- physical inactivity