›› What is a Cholesterol Monitor...

A cholesterol monitor is one of the many products available for home use that will allow you to check the levels of “bad” and “good” cholesterol in your blood stream. These are useful tools; however, they are not designed to replace a full lipid panel that you normally get during your doctor visits. Be sure to consult your healthcare professional to see deciding which monitor is right for you.

How do they work?
A cholesterol monitor works by measuring total blood cholesterol. This measurement consists of both high and low density lipoproteins or HDL and LDL. A lancing device is used to prick your finger and a drop of blood is then placed on a test strip. You see the results of your test typically in about 3 minutes.

Why don’t they separate HDL and LDL levels?
As stated before, these monitors are not designed to replace a full lipid panel. The manufacturers of these monitors strongly encourage individuals to see their doctor for a full lipid profile before buying their own monitor.

Then what is the point of home cholesterol testing?
Checking your cholesterol at home is a great way to stay motivated and make you stick with your doctor’s prescribed cholesterol lowering routine. A cholesterol monitor can help you gauge your progression as time goes on after you start taking steps to lower your cholesterol levels.

Is fasting required before you use the monitor?
No. You do not have to fast before taking a test with a home cholesterol monitor. This is one huge difference between administering the test yourself and getting a full lipid panel done at the doctor. Patients are required to fast for 12 hours before getting a full panel.

How accurate are they?
Home monitors give results that are as accurate as tests performed by doctors and some of them actually use this type of test in their offices. Studies show that when a cholesterol monitor is used correctly and carefully, the accuracy rate was 96%.

Are they safe?
Yes. Each packet comes completely sterilized and includes a lancet, test strip, alcohol swab as well as a small bandage if needed.

Is there training involved in learning to use one?
No. Training is not needed to use a cholesterol monitor. Everything you need to know in order to use it effectively is included in the box.