LIPID PROFILE

A lipid profile is defined as a blood test which determines the level of several specific lipids in the blood. It is a very important test in the detection of risk for ischemic heart disease (IHD) such as risk factors. Through supervision of cholesterol and triglycerides levels, patients understand more about their cardiovascular system and the available ways through which heart diseases can be managed or even prevented. 

The lipid profile determines a number of important blood lipid parameters such as: 

• Total cholesterol: This level is used collectively to measure the amount of cholesterol present in the blood. 
• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol: It is worth mentioning that LDL is a cholesterol that is known as “bad” cholesterol and is clearly associated with plaque accumulation in the arteries when their amounts are raised. 
• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol: A type of cholesterol that helps other types of cholesterol to be removed from blood. 
• Triglycerides: A stored form of body fat, and high levels of triglycerides may increase the risk of heart disease. 

A Lipid Profile is normally carried out in the following cases: 

• During annual checkup for adults. 
• To determine the patient's risk for heart diseases if heart problems run in the family. 
• To know the clinical signs of elevated levels of cholesterol like xanthomas or xanthelasmas or even corneal arcus. 
• To check for the response of the patient on drugs prescribed to lower his/her cholesterol levels. 

• Lipid Profile is an essential and simple blood test where the risks are minimal and are only related to venipuncture which could lead to a bruise or infection at the site of the draw. Some other limitations might include: 
• Results are subject to change depending on the food consumed in the recent past (especially those with fat), hence the reason fasting should be practiced. 
• Stress, an ailment, pregnancy, or drug therapy are some factors that may alter the level of lipids in the blood and thus falsify the results. 

The Lipid Profile considers the following parameters and their relations to health: 

• Total Cholesterol- High levels of total cholesterol raise the likelihood of contracting heart disease. 
• LDL Cholesterol- High levels of LDL probably would mean chances of artery clogs resulting in heart attacks. 
• HDL Cholesterol- Low levels of HDL are an obstruction to maintaining good cardiovascular health. 
• Triglycerides- Conversely, elevated levels of triglycerides are predictors of atherosclerosis. 

The Lipid Profile is particularly beneficial for: 

• Everyone age 40 or older unless the clinician advises against it or the individual has a citation of surgery or other concerns. 
• Patients with genetic risks for heart disease and genetically elevated cholesterol levels. 
• Smokers, individuals who are overweight, and people not very active physically. 
• Patients with diabetes, hypertension, and other diseases. 

Given below are several advantages gained from taking a Lipid Profile: 

• Allows early discovery of high cholesterol, which means that measures can be put in place ANS high cholesterol can be controlled. 
• Assisting in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases by identifying those that are likely to get them. 
• Assessing how cholesterol levels can be managed through the use of medications, dietary alterations, and changes in lifestyle. 

Primary Lipid Profile can be used to diagnose or flag risk for: 

• Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol levels) 
• Atherosclerosis (thickening of the arterial walls) 
• The rare pancreas disorder as a result of high triglycerides levels 
• Cardiovascular disorders, such as ischemic heart disease 

Pre Interview: It is advised to fast 9 – 12 hours before the test so that triglycerides levels are accurate. Only water intake may be allowed. 

Target Audience: Any individual can book a Lipid Profile, but it is mostly done in middle-aged individuals and persons with heart disease risk factors during regular check-ups. 

Sample Collection Method: A blood sample (often taken from the arm near the elbow) will be collected by a medical staff during the examination. It is done quickly and takes less than five minutes. 

Do not exercise or do any strenuous physical activity within twenty-four hours before the test. Talk to your doctor about any drugs you may be taking as some may affect lipid readings.