Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Choose the Best Home Cholesterol Test?

Tiffany Manley
Tiffany Manley

Home cholesterol tests have become a popular choice for individuals who wish to test their cholesterol levels. There are a wide range of home cholesterol test choices available to consumers. To choose the best one for yourself, you should determine how often you will be testing, what types of information you want to get from the test and whether the home cholesterol test has been approved by a trustworthy medical organization. You might also choose to ask for a recommendation from a medical professional.

There are several types of home cholesterol tests that range from single-use tests to multiple-use tests. If you simply want to do a onetime test of your total cholesterol level, then a single-use test is right for you. To save money, you might buy a pack of multiple single-use tests. If you would like to test specific components of your cholesterol, then multi-use kits are what you should purchase. These tests come in packs containing several tests that might be used on a regular basis.

Consuming peanuts on a regular basis may help lower cholesterol levels.
Consuming peanuts on a regular basis may help lower cholesterol levels.

A multi-use home cholesterol test provides information about total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides. These tests generally are digital and will provide fast, accurate information. If you want to monitor your cholesterol levels over a period of time, this type of test might be the right one for you.

The body produces LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol.
The body produces LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol.

It is a good idea to look for tests that have been certified by a medical authority. This means that the item has been reviewed and the medical organization believes that it is safe for use by consumers. Although this is not a requirement for a home cholesterol test, it can’t hurt to look for a test that has this designation.

Asking your medical professional for a recommendation on home cholesterol tests is another way to find one that is right for you. If your doctor is familiar with your medical history, he or she might be able to recommend several tests that would be best for you and your situation. Some offices might have samples or coupons to save on home cholesterol tests.

High levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the blood may lead to clogged arteries.
High levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the blood may lead to clogged arteries.

Cost is another factor in choosing a home cholesterol test. Single-use tests have the potential to get very expensive if they are bought on a regular basis. Although the initial investment might be more, a multi-use test might be a better choice because it can be used repeatedly.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Consuming peanuts on a regular basis may help lower cholesterol levels.
      By: lirtlon
      Consuming peanuts on a regular basis may help lower cholesterol levels.
    • The body produces LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol.
      By: rob3000
      The body produces LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol.
    • High levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the blood may lead to clogged arteries.
      By: Alexandr Mitiuc
      High levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the blood may lead to clogged arteries.
    • People who regularly eat fried and fatty foods are at high risk for high cholesterol levels.
      By: Magdalena Kucova
      People who regularly eat fried and fatty foods are at high risk for high cholesterol levels.
    • High levels of cholesterol can contribute to coronary artery disease, which may cause chest pain and discomfort.
      By: hriana
      High levels of cholesterol can contribute to coronary artery disease, which may cause chest pain and discomfort.
    • Buffet meals may contain many foods that are high in cholesterol.
      By: sattriani
      Buffet meals may contain many foods that are high in cholesterol.
    • Consuming red wine may help increase the levels of good cholesterol in the blood.
      By: Minerva Studio
      Consuming red wine may help increase the levels of good cholesterol in the blood.