Cholesterol blood panel

The cholesterol panel measures the levels of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and non-HDL cholesterol. It helps to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease and supports lifestyle and treatment choices. If you have symptoms or risk factors, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Andreas Abel

General practitioner

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Detecting and monitoring high cholesterol
  • Assessing the risk of cardiovascular disease
  • Checking cholesterol levels in cases of hereditary predisposition
  • Assessing the impact of lifestyle and diet on cholesterol levels
  • Monitoring the effectiveness of medication in lowering cholesterol
  • Risk assessment for diabetes or high blood pressure
  • Assessing heart health as part of a general health check-up

Common symptoms

If you experience symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, it is always recommended to consult a doctor, as a cholesterol panel does not diagnose acute conditions. A cholesterol panel is most useful for the overall assessment of cardiovascular disease risk factors. High cholesterol usually does not cause immediate symptoms on its own. A cholesterol panel may be particularly beneficial in the following cases:

  • Already diagnosed high cholesterol

    The panel helps monitor changes and the effect of treatment.
  • Daily habits and lifestyle

    Overweight, smoking, lack of physical activity, and other unfavorable habits can increase the risk of various chronic diseases and health problems.
  • Family predisposition

    The presence of chronic diseases or heart diseases in close relatives can increase hereditary risk factors and be important information for prevention
  • High blood pressure

    Elevated blood pressure is an important cardiovascular risk factor.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring your ID card or another form of identification.
  • The test can be taken 2–3 hours after a light meal.
  • It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids during the 24 hours before the test.
  • Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that are easy to roll up.
  • Avoid coffee, energy drinks, and smoking before giving the sample. Otherwise, no special preparation is needed unless you have been told otherwise.

What to expect during your appointment

Booking

Book a suitable time for the blood test in the Meliva self-service portal or by calling the short number 1525.

Registration

Upon arrival, register at the reception.

Blood sample

A nurse will take a blood sample from a vein.

Lab analysis

Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and non-HDL cholesterol will be measured.

Results

The results of the cholesterol panel are usually ready within 1 working day and are visible in the Meliva self-service portal and the national health portal.

Interpreting results

To evaluate the results, it is always recommended to book a consultation with a doctor at the Meliva Digital Clinic or a regular appointment.

Specialists providing this service

  • Aleksandra Levitskaja

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • Aleksandra Skripka

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre

  • Alina Maspanova

    Nurse

    Kvartal Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health

  • Alisa Aleksejeva

    Nurse

    Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • Anastasia Grudkina

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • dr Andreas Abel

    General practitioner

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Rävala Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health, Digikliinik

Payment & Appointment Info

Prices

Tallinn

Special care
Service Price
Blood cholesterol panel The package includes one free consultation with a Digital Clinic doctor. 25 €

Everywhere else in Estonia

Special care
Service Price
Blood cholesterol panel The package includes one free consultation with a Digital Clinic doctor. 25 €
Payment methods

Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Preventive Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

With a doctor’s referral, Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Outpatient Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Clinics offering this service

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the cholesterol panel measure?

The cholesterol panel measures the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (so-called “bad” cholesterol), HDL cholesterol (so-called “good” cholesterol), triglycerides, and non-HDL cholesterol.

Do I need to fast for the cholesterol panel?

The test can be taken 2–3 hours after a light meal.

Does high cholesterol cause symptoms?

Usually not. High cholesterol is often discovered in a blood test before it causes complications.

What should I do if my results are outside the normal range?

Consult a doctor, who will assess your overall risk and the need for lifestyle changes or treatment.

Can high cholesterol be treated?

Yes, the treatment for high cholesterol usually starts with lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity. If necessary, a doctor can prescribe medication to lower cholesterol.

How often should I have my cholesterol checked?

This depends on your age, risk factors, and previous results. It is wise to agree on the frequency of the next check-up during a consultation with your doctor.