Triglycerides Test
Triglycerides Test: Everything You Need to Know
A triglycerides test measures the amount of a type of fat found in your blood. It is a type of lipid test and is usually conducted along with a cholesterol test. Triglycerides are an important part of your overall heart health and need to be kept at a healthy level. This article is designed to give you an overview of the triglycerides test, including what it is, why it is important, when you should get tested, how to prepare for a triglycerides test, and potential risks.
What is a triglycerides test?
A triglycerides test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood that functions as an energy source. Triglycerides can come from food or they can be made in the body. Triglycerides are necessary for good health, but when there are too many triglycerides, it increases your risk of heart disease.
Why is it important to get a triglycerides test?
Having too many triglycerides in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Triglycerides tests can help your healthcare provider diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including diabetes, pre-diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. The test can also help to monitor your response to lifestyle changes or medications.
When should you get a triglycerides test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend a triglycerides test in the following situations:
- If you have risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- If you’re taking a cholesterol-lowering drug
- If you’re taking medications to treat diabetes
- If you have an abnormal cholesterol test result
- If you have a family history of heart disease
- If you’re overweight or obese
- If you have kidney disease
How do you prepare for a triglycerides test?
Your triglycerides level can be affected by your diet, so your healthcare provider may recommend that you fast for 8 to 12 hours before your triglycerides test. During this time you shouldn’t eat, drink anything but water, or take any medications, including vitamins, unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.
How is the triglycerides test performed?
The triglycerides test is usually done as part of a cholesterol test. It is performed by drawing a sample of blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What do the results of a triglycerides test mean?
The results of a triglycerides test show the amount of triglycerides in your blood. The normal range for triglycerides is usually between 10–150 mg/dL. However, depending on your gender and age, your healthcare provider may deem a different range as normal for you.
Your healthcare provider will consider your test results along with your risk factors for heart disease and make a recommendation on how to reduce your risk, if necessary. This could include changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medications.
What are the risks of a triglycerides test?
The triglycerides test is a safe and painless procedure. Some people may experience minor discomfort, such as bruising at the site of the blood draw. There are no other risks associated with the test.
