Cholesterol levels

BarneyRubble

I thought having patient's cholesterol tested was one of the 'targets' set by government which could earn a medical practice more money?

I have a feeling that may be only for the 40+ age group though.

If you're younger, they may have no incentive (Or actual need) to do it.

KayEdwards

You can and are advised to get it done if you are diabetic, or have any heart disease in the family.

Bogof_Babe

Thanks both. I am 54, so if age is the relevant factor then I should be given a test. However as fortunately there is no family history of heart disease or diabetes, then perhaps I am not considered a priority.

I wish "they" would gear their advertising to reflect that not everyone will be as "lucky" as Lulu apparently was (in the ads), and automatically be tested on request.

KayEdwards

Well I think the advert is very misleading especially as the "cholesterol lowering ingredient" in those products is negligible according to a heart specialist I was discussing the subject with. In "advert land" you can have any test you like for effect and of course every substance that passes your lips is superbly healthy for you!

ka7e

At my GP's everyone over 45 is invited to attend a nurse's clinic to have their blood pressure taken - anyone with even slightly raised levels is asked to come back for a cholesterol test and a chat about diet, exercise etc. The priority is in picking up those at risk and promoting a healthier lifestyle before a serious health condition sets in.

EdInvestor

If your blood pressure test reads very high, always ask (if not offered) to have another test a bit later after you've talked to the doctor, feel relaxed etc.The second test should be taken lying down.

It's not uncommon for blood pressure to vary quite substantially over short periods due to stress - brought on by anything from nervousness at seeing the doctor, traffic jam, late for appointment, whatever.

It can be quite dangerous to take medicine to lower blood pressure if your blood pressure is actually normal or low - very low blood pressure (caused by the medicine) can cause collapse.

princess

hi bogof babe. i really think at your age you should have a check. i would go back to your gp and say you would like one...to put your mind at rest...because of family history..or whatever reason you like. if the gp remains unwilling you can either make a big fuss (that would be my style!) or if you prefer a quieter life you can often get one done at the pharmacy sometimes free or use a home test kit.
i refer you to the nhs direct advice
http://www.besttreatments.co.uk/btuk/conditions/29580.html

steve_cov

Bogof_Babe wrote:

I asked at my GP's surgery for a test, and they said they don't do this "unless there is cause for concern".

You sound like "worried well" to me.

You ought to have your blood pressure, blood sugar, body mass index etc. measured every year or so, and be asked for details of your smoking/exercise status and other bits and pieces so that the GP/practice nurse can offer you advice appropriate to your circumstances.

Why do you think you need a cholesterol test? Is it because you heard of the word "cholesterol" on an advert and are curious, or because you have good reason to suspect your level may be high?

[Sorry, will edit to admit to being NHS worker.]

DrFluffy

Bogof_Babe wrote:

Just reading a thread on DT where people all seem to know what their cholesterol level is. I asked at my GP's surgery for a test, and they said they don't do this "unless there is cause for concern".

Are we "entitled to" a test on the NHS?

Boots will test it for you. It will cost.

I have to admit, things like this !!!!!! me off. People rant about their right to "this, that and the other". All this costs money. If there is no good cause for concern, it is a waste of resource - money that could be used to treat someone with an actual diagnosed and defined complaint.

People slag off the NHS for not doing X, Y and Z, but then go demanding 'elective' tests for A, B and C, 'becasue they can' and it is 'their right'. There is a limited pot of money...

northerngeezer

Hi, my brother has been diagnosed with high cholestorol levels (8.6).

Would anybody know what the equivalent value is for the U.S measurement system.

Thanks