Overview
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood, primarily derived from foods, especially fats and carbohydrates. When you eat, your body converts excess calories into triglycerides, storing them in fat cells for energy between meals. High triglyceride levels can increase the risk of heart disease and may be a sign of metabolic issues, such as diabetes or obesity. A healthy triglyceride level is essential for cardiovascular health, and it is often managed through diet, exercise, and sometimes medication.
What is the Triglyceride Test ?
Increased Plasma Triglyceride levels are indicative of a metabolic abnormality and, along with elevated Cholesterol, are considered a risk factor for Atherosclerotic disease. Hyperlipidemia may be inherited or be associated with Biliary obstruction, Diabetes mellitus, Nephrotic syndrome, renal failure, or metabolic disorders related to endocrinopathies. Increased triglycerides may also be associated with alcohol consumption, sedentarism or medication-induced (eg, prednisone). Since cholesterol and triglycerides can vary independently, measurement of both is more meaningful than the measurement of cholesterol only. Triglyceride result can be falsely decreased in patients with elevated levels of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI)-a metabolite of acetaminophen, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and metamizole. Triglyceride concentration in body fluids can be useful when diagnosing chylous effusion or differentiating from pseudochylous effusion Pleural fluid triglyceride concentrations over 110 mg/dL are consistent with a chylous effusion. Triglyceride concentrations below 50 mg/dL are usually not due to chylous effusions. Peritoneal fluid triglyceride concentrations over 187 mg/dL are most consistent with chylous effusion.
What is the Purpose of the Triglyceride Test ?
Triglyceride Test is advised for following analysis:
- Screening: The Triglyceride Test helps in screening people for potential heart disease risks even before they develop symptoms. This testing becomes necessary in vulnerable individuals with a family history of heart disease, smokers, and people with conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Diagnosis: This profile is critical for identifying triglyceride imbalances and other related conditions. It detects hypertriglyceridemia, which can lead to atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.
- Monitoring: Following a diagnosis of a triglyceride disorder or heart disease, the triglyceride test is used to assess treatment effectiveness. Regular monitoring ensures that triglyceride levels remain within the desired range, allowing for timely treatment adjustments.
- Assessing the Impact of Medical Conditions and Treatments: The triglyceride test also assesses how diabetes, obesity, and certain medications influence triglyceride levels. This promotes heart health by allowing for more informed medical decisions.
When is a Triglyceride Test Recommended ?
Triglyceride Test is generally advised if you are vulnerable to Cardiovascular Disease due to following risk factors:
- Age of 45 years for men and 50-55 years for women
- High cholesterol levels
- History of cardiovascular problems
- Smoking cigarettes
- Being overweight or obese
- Unhealthy diet
- Poor physical activity
- Having high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Having a first-degree relative who developed heart disease at an early age (under 55 in men and under 65 in women)
- Diabetic or prediabetic
Preparation for Triglyceride Test
- You need to fast for at least 10-12 hours before giving samples for this comprehensive testing.
- Drink adequate water before sample collection.
- Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.
- Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.
What is the Cost of a Triglyceride Test ?
The Price of a Triglyceride test is Rs. 200. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:
- Other tests advised along with triglyceride test
- Offers or discounts
- Empanelment of the patient
Components of Triglyceride Test
- Triglyceride: Increased Triglyceride levels can cause Artery hardening and increase the risk of Heart disease and Stroke. Keeping Triglyceride levels under control is critical for maintaining Cardiovascular health
Interpreting the Triglyceride Test Results
Your Triglyceride levels are quantified in milligrammes per decilitre of blood. Values that do not meet these criteria may be classified as optimal, near optimal, borderline high, high, and very high.
TRIGLYCERIDE LEVELS |
TRIGLYCERIDE CATEGORY |
Less than 150 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/L) |
Desirable |
150 to 199 mg/dL (1.7-2.2 mmol/L) |
Borderline high |
200 to 499 mg/dL (2.3-5.6 mmol/L) |
High |
Greater than 500 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L) |
Very high |
How is the Triglyceride Test Done ?
The Blood Sample for Triglyceride Test is taken in following steps:
- The area where the needle will be inserted to take your blood is cleaned with an antiseptic alcohol wipe. The hollow on the inside side of the elbow or the tip of the finger are the most common sites for this.
- A tourniquet or a band is tied around your upper arm to facilitate the access to the vein in your arm.
- A needle is used to puncture your vein. The blood sample is collected into a test tube attached to the needle. The needle may cause a small pinch or sting when it is inserted.
- Once the vial or test tube is filled, the blood sample collection for the test is finished and the needle is taken out.
- Finger pressure is applied on the puncture site to stop the bleeding and the band aid is applied at the site.
How to Schedule A Triglyceride Test with Dr. B. Lal Lab ?
- Go to the Dr. B. Lal Lab website.
- Go to the “Book a test” tab.
- Select the “Lab Test” tab.
- Type “Triglyceride Test” in the search bar.
- Click on the test.
- The test page with all the test details will show up.
- Click on “Book Now”.
- Login and verify your mobile number with OTP.
- Now enter your details.
- Select date & time for booking Triglyceride Test in Jaipur.
- Check out.