About Us | Privacy | Site Map
Font Size
A
A
A

Cholesterol Tests (cont.)

During the Procedure

During this procedure, a blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. To do so, a tourniquet (an elastic band) is tied around your arm just above the elbow. A needle is then inserted into a vein in your arm near the inside of your elbow. Once the needle is positioned, a small amount of blood is withdrawn and collected in a vial or a syringe. After the blood is collected, the needle is removed from the vein, and the tourniquet is removed from your arm. A small cotton ball is pressed over the puncture site to stop any bleeding. After the bleeding has stopped, a bandage is put on. 

How long does it take?

This is a short procedure, usually only lasting 3 minutes or less.

Does it hurt?

Most people feel only mild pain as the needle is advanced under the skin into the vein.



Next: After the Procedure »

Share | | | | | More

Cholesterol Management

Tips to keep it under control.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Cholesterol Embolism »

Cholesterol embolism syndrome should be suspected in a patient who develops worsening renal function, hypertension, distal ischemia, or acute multisystem dysfunction after an invasive arterial procedure.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary