Triglycerides Test
What is Triglycerides Test?
Triglycerides test is an important laboratory test which helps to measure the level of triglycerides in our blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat or lipid which is made in our body and acquired from food. Abnormal level of triglycerides increases the risk of cardiovascular complications, like stroke, heart attack, and coronary artery disease.
Preparation for Triglycerides Test
The triglycerides test requires no additional preparation. However, the results of triglycerides test may be affected by the food a person has consumed. 8-12 hours of fasting is recommended before the test to obtain accurate results.
Procedure of Triglycerides Test
Triglycerides test is an easy and convenient test which requires a blood sample. The healthcare provider will take the sample from a vein in your arm, usually from the inside of your elbow or back of your hand. He will then clean the area with an alcohol swab and then insert a needle attached to a syringe into a vein to draw the sample. After the sample is drawn, it will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Types of Triglycerides Test
Triglycerides test is usually performed in conjunction with cholesterol test. There are two main types of triglycerides tests, namely, non-fasting triglycerides test and fasting triglycerides test. In non-fasting triglycerides test, the sample can be taken at any time regardless of the when the last meal was taken. In fasting triglycerides test, the blood sample is taken after a minimum of 8 hours of fasting.
Risks Associated with Triglycerides Test
Triglycerides test is a simple and safe test with minimal risks. There is a small risk of bruising at the puncture site due to insertion of the needle. This should subside within a few days. There is also a small risk of infection due to insertion of the needle, which can be prevented by proper hygiene.
Why is Triglycerides Test Done?
Triglycerides test is an important test to measure the level of triglycerides in blood. High triglycerides levels can increase your risk of coronary artery diseases, stroke, and heart attack. Triglycerides test also helps to monitor the effectiveness of diet and medications in people with high triglyceride levels.
When is Triglycerides Test Typically Done?
Your healthcare provider will discuss the need of triglycerides test and will advise you when to have the test depending on your medical history, lifestyle habits, age and other factors. Generally, it is recommended that you get a triglycerides test once in every 5 years between the age of 20 and 40 and every year after the age of 40.
