Cholesterol Screening

High cholesterol levels are strongly linked to the narrowing of the arteries which can result in coronary heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.

Some are more at risk than others. Many factors can contribute towards your blood cholesterol levels. If any of the following apply to you, it’s a good idea to visit one of our pharmacies for a simple cholesterol test.

  • You have a family history of heart disease or stroke
  • Suffering from high blood pressure or diabetes
  • Eating an unhealthy diet
  • Drinking an excessive amount of alcohol
  • You’re of Asian or Afro-Caribbean descent
  • Taking little exercise or physical activity
  • You’re overweight
  • Smoking

Following a healthy and balanced diet may help to reduce high cholesterol. Even if you’re within a healthy weight range it’s important that you review your diet and reduce your intake of saturated fats.

FAQs

How can I check my Cholesterol levels?

Cholesterol is easily measured at one of our pharmacies by checking a blood sample from a small, painless finger prick. The test takes no more than 20 minutes and will be completed by our trained staff in the comfort of a private consultation room.

What will the test show?

The blood test will show a complete lipid profile (made up of total, high and low cholesterol). Our pharmacist will discuss the results directly with you, making recommendations on the management of your levels and if appropriate refer you to your GP for further investigation.

The Pharmacist will take time to explain the results, offering lifestyle advice that may help control cholesterol levels and, if appropriate, advise you to discuss suitable treatment with your GP.

How often should I check my Cholesterol?

Every adult should be measured at least once before they are far past middle age. Cholesterol is easily measured in a blood sample. If high cholesterol runs in your family, it's better to measure cholesterol at a much younger age - some time in your 20s.

Cholesterol levels don't tend to fluctuate, so if you have a normal level it doesn't need to be repeated for many years. But, if it's high, it may need frequent retesting to gauge the effect of lifestyle changes and treatment.

What lifestyle changes should I make?

We’re all individuals so your Pharmacist will recommend what’s best for you. As a guide the following steps will add benefit to your health over time:

  • Eat more fresh fruit and vegetables each day – 5 portions are recommended
  • Reduce your intake of salt, saturated fat and sugar.
  • Do more exercise or physical activities
  • Watch your weight
  • Limit your alcohol intake
  • Stop smoking

Can I get help to stop smoking?

Yes, your local M Whitfield Ltd pharmacy can offer the support and advice you need to help you stop. By stopping smoking you can improve your health and dramatically reduce the risks of dying from smoking related illnesses, as well as saving money.

What’s a reasonable amount of Alcohol?

The government recommends no more that 2 units of alcohol a day for women and 3 units a day for men. Women should have no more than 14 units a week and men should not exceed 21 units. One unit is equal to a small glass of wine, half a pint of beer or cider, or one measure of spirits.

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