- Testing for triglycerides is done on a sample of blood taken with a needle. According to Medline Plus, the blood is generally drawn from either the back of the hand or inside the elbow.
- According to Medline Plus, some people may feel some discomfort during the test. Other possible risks include bleeding too much, becoming light-headed, fainting, developing a hematoma (where blood collects beneath the skin), or infection.
- Before a triglycerides test, patients are advised not to consume food or drink for eight and 12 hours. For some patients, it may be necessary to temporarily stop taking some medications, but only if a doctor advises it, according to Medline Plus.
- Results from the triglycerides tests are given in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). There are four different groups of triglyceride levels; normal triglycerides are lower than 150 mg/dL, borderline high level ranges between 150 and 199 mg/dL, high is between 200 and 499 mg/dL, and very high triglycerides are considered to be 500 mg/dL or above, according to Medline Plus.
- Based on the results of a triglycerides level test, further testing may be necessary if a problem is suspected. Doctors and patients can work together to take steps to control triglycerides.
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