Lipids are among the four physiologically necessary substances the body needs to carry out its daily processes, along with carbs, protein, and nucleic acid. They are simple compounds that contain hydrocarbons. Critical diseases such as coronary artery disease, cardiac arrest, stroke, etc., may be brought on by lipid abnormalities, such as elevated cholesterol levels.
A lipid profile test may be suggested by a doctor as part of a standard physical to look for any potential anomalies, to check for an increase in bad cholesterol, or to spot any health issues that might become life-threatening.
What are Lipids?
Lipids are chemical molecules in the human body that are insoluble in water. These include lipids, oils, hormones, and even cellular membrane components. They serve as the body’s energy source, help in digestion, and provide insulation, among other things. They, together with carbs, are responsible for creating the majority of the energy necessary for the human body’s optimal functioning.
The Importance of Lipid Testing
A lipid profile is a picture of the amount of healthy and unhealthy lipids in your blood. Heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and other health issues are all related to high cholesterol. A lipid profile is necessary for people diagnosed with or at increased risk for certain diseases.
A lipid profile can estimate the probability of illnesses connected to cholesterol. It is commonly recommended as a component of a routine health checkup procedure. Additionally, research has been conducted to determine the efficacy of particular cholesterol-lowering medications, treatments, and lifestyle changes.
What is the purpose of a lipid panel?
Lipid panels are used by medical professionals to evaluate different medical issues and to analyze blood cholesterol to assess a patient’s cardiovascular health.
A specialist could request a lipid panel for the following causes:
- As a standard checkup, evaluate whether your cholesterol level is normal, borderline, moderate, or high-risk.
- You should monitor your cholesterol level if you have unusual test findings or additional heart disease risk factors.
- Help track how your body responds to therapy, such as cholesterol medication or a lifestyle change.
- to aid in diagnosing other health issues, such as liver disease.
How is a test for lipid profiles carried out?
The lipid profile test method is pretty simple. Your arm is punctured to get little blood for the lipid profile blood sample. The phlebotomist will use an antiseptic solution to disinfect the region on your arm before locating a vein close to the skin’s surface and drawing blood with a syringe. This procedure is quick and somewhat painless.
- The skin puncture will be cleaned and bandaged once a blood sample is taken.
- Since this is an outpatient procedure, you can return home after providing a blood sample.
- Verify again that you correctly followed all the test-day preparation steps.
Reasons for Different Lipid Profile Test Prices
Despite being a frequent and straightforward examination, a lipid profile test cost varies greatly. Although some of it could be due to quality, profiteering and illegal activity account for a sizable portion.
A typical person may find it challenging to select a reputable lab at a reasonable price. You can choose one with the aid of the following checklist.
- Lab Standards Or Credibility
Some laboratories have developed a reputation over time. Typically, these laboratories charge extra due to two factors. One is that it represents quality, and two is that they have strict quality standards, which drive the price.
- Locality
In major cities, the price of a lipid profile test is often more excellent. Some places, even inside cities, are more expensive than other areas. For instance, laboratories in south Delhi charge more, whereas labs close to government hospitals charge less.
- Testing Certification
The two most rigorous certifications are CAP and NABL. Checking for at least one of the certifications is advised. For just Rs 499, you may reserve a Lipid Profile test at Thyrocare, a NABL and CAP Certified Lab. The sample will be taken from the convenience of your house without charge.
