What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your LDL cholesterol level means for your heart health. These notes include personalized recommendations like dietary changes, exercise suggestions, or whether you should follow up with a cardiologist. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your cholesterol levels over time using our trends feature to see how your diet and lifestyle interventions are working.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone with a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, or stroke. It's also recommended if you have risk factors like being overweight, having diabetes, smoking, or living a sedentary lifestyle. People already managing their cholesterol with diet, exercise, or medication should use this test for regular monitoring.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

High cholesterol typically has no obvious symptoms, which is why testing is so important. However, you should consider this test if you have unexplained chest discomfort, shortness of breath during activity, or a family history of early heart disease. Even without symptoms, regular cholesterol screening is recommended for adults, especially after age 40.

How can I naturally lower my LDL cholesterol?

Start by eating more fiber-rich foods like oats, beans, and vegetables, which help remove cholesterol from your body. Replace saturated fats from red meat and butter with healthy fats from fish, nuts, and olive oil. Regular aerobic exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling for at least 30 minutes most days can significantly lower LDL levels. Losing even 5-10 pounds if you're overweight can make a meaningful difference.

What is LDL cholesterol and why does it matter?

LDL cholesterol is often called bad cholesterol because it carries cholesterol particles that can stick to artery walls, forming plaque that narrows blood vessels. Over time, this buildup increases your risk of heart attacks and strokes by restricting blood flow to your heart and brain. Keeping your LDL levels in a healthy range is one of the most important things you can do to protect your cardiovascular health.

What does high LDL cholesterol mean?

High LDL cholesterol means you have too much bad cholesterol circulating in your blood, which increases your risk of developing heart disease and having a heart attack or stroke. The excess cholesterol can deposit in your artery walls, causing them to narrow and harden over time. High LDL often results from diet, lack of exercise, genetics, or a combination of these factors.

How often should I retest my LDL cholesterol?

If your LDL is in the healthy range and you have no risk factors, retesting every 4-6 years is typically sufficient. If your levels are high or you're making lifestyle changes or taking cholesterol medication, your doctor will likely want to retest every 3-6 months to monitor progress. Once your levels are stable on treatment, annual testing is common for ongoing monitoring.