A triglycerides test measures the amount of triglycerides in your blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat in your body. If you eat more calories than you need, the extra calories are converted into triglycerides. These triglycerides are stored in your fat cells for later use. When your body needs energy, triglycerides are released into your bloodstream to provide fuel for your muscles to work. If you eat more calories than you burn off, especially calories from carbohydrates and fats, you may get high triglyceride levels in your blood. High triglycerides may put you at greater risk for a heart attack or stroke.
Other names for a triglycerides test: TG, TRIG, lipid panel, fasting lipoprotein panel
For the assessment of developing heart disease and to monitor the effectiveness of lipid-lower therapy.
Screening for adults should be done as part of a lipid profile during a regular medical exam at least once every 4 to 6 years. Screening for children should take place once between the ages of 9 and 11 and again when the child is between the ages of 12 and 21.
Monitoring may be done more frequently, especially if there are risk factors for heart disease and/or if you are being treated for unhealthy lipid levels.
Note: The medical information provided here in this website is for informational purposes only and is not to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
