Yes, such a thing exists. I have not had my cholesterol checked since before Aidan was born 9 years ago and feel like it is high time. So today when I was at Walgreen’s I saw CholesTrak, a home cholesterol test and grabbed it. Now before I get comments about how I can’t expect this to replace the advice of a doctor – no worries there – I am  going to schedule a full physical exam here soon.  It was more of a curiosity and I figured if it showed up really bad I would speed up how quickly I go to the doctor.

So $20 later I am on my way home, late as always. As with all things that I think my husband will laugh at me about, I clandestinely take it upstairs with plans to try it after I shower.

I got out of the shower, sat on the love seat and opened up the test. I was pleased to see that there was no mention of fasting. (I had read that a downside of home cholesterol tests is that people forget to fast.). The directions were easy to read, simple to follow and quick. Start to finish the test took 20 minutes. I did find the chart about your results somewhat confusing, but on second read, it made sense.

I mentioned being late right? We were headed to a couples baby shower that evening. Yikes! I was ready to go before the test had finished.  So at the risk of my husband laughing at me (and the kids too), I grabbed the test, my notebook  and phone and ran out the door. Yes, I sat the test on top of my cup holder, exposed well of blood and all, and waited for the results.

For an at home quickie test, I found CholesTrak to be very simple. The results indicated that my levels are borderline between idea and acceptable. No reason to rush to the doctor today but I do plan on following the results with a true, read by a professional, test. Nothing replaces the advice of a good and trusted doctor.

I would recommend the test if:

• You are concerned (or curious) but can’t get to the doctor soon
• Your levels are high and you want to easily monitor your levels

For now, I am  satisfied that my cholesterol levels aren’t dangerously high. I do present other Heart Disease risk factors and this test alone does not give me the whole picture.  For myself and my family, I will be eating better, exercising more and asking for everyone to help hold me  accountable.  Including you!

Thanks for stopping by! I’d love to hear what you are doing to take better care of yourself.

Oh and by the way, my husband did laugh at me but he was glad I had taken the test.

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