Dr. Gary Goff and his team of practitioners specialize in cholesterol screenings and cholesterol testing services in the Dallas area. Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the lipids in your blood. A little bit of cholesterol helps your body function properly but too much cholesterol can cause clogged arteries (artherosclerosis), leading to heart disease and stroke. A high level of cholesterol does not display symptoms or warning signs, so it is important to get tested.
Who needs Cholesterol Testing?
Those who are at normal risk for heart disease should begin testing around age 20 and receive cholesterol tests as part of a comprehensive cardiovascular checkup every five years. Men should have their first cholesterol screening no later than age 35 and for women no later than age 45.
What does a Complete Cholesterol Test Measure?
A complete cholesterol test (also called a lipid profile) is a blood test that measures four types of fats:
- Total Cholesterol: The total amount of cholesterol in the blood
- High Density Lipoprotein (HDL): This cholesterol helps clear LDL cholesterol, helping blood flow freely. It is often referred to as “good” cholesterol.
- Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL): LDL cholesterol can cause buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, reducing blood flow. If the blood flow is restricted enough, it can lead to heart attack and stroke. LDL cholesterol is often called “bad” cholesterol.
- Triglycerides: Your body converts unusued calories into triglycerides, also known as the fat content in your blood. High triglyceride levels are associated with being overweight, a sendentary lifestyle or consuming excessive sweets or alcohol.
Risk Factors for High Cholesterol
The following risk factors increase your chance of having high cholesterol levels:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Family history of heart disease or high cholesterol
- Being overweight
- Sedentary lifestyle
- High-fat diet
- Smoking cigarettes
If you have any of these risk factors, we recommend beginning cholesterol screening earlier than age 35 for men and 45 for women. In most cases, you will also be tested for cholesterol more regularly.
If you are concerned about your cholesterol risk, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Goff’s office today for an appointment. We can test cholesterol levels or interpret the results from an outside test. Dr. Goff and his team of practitioners specialize in Cholesterol testing and screening in the Dallas area. Please reach out to us today with any questions or concerns you may have about our services offered.
