Thread: Boots cholestrol test.....

I went and had one of the free blood tests at boots today just to check out my cholesterol. I had it done a few years ago and it was really low, but as I've put on weight over the last few years I decided to get it checked.
Well the result was very high - especially high for my age (38). I was so upset and scared but I didn't let on as the kids were with me. She sid I needed to see the doc to get another check done etc.
I rang and made an appt at the docs and told them why and the receptionist was really comforting and she told me not to worry. She said these tests often come back with a high reading but when the doctor does one I will have to fast for so long before I have it done and she says they often come back a lot lower.
I was so flustered and worried that I even left my money in the cash machine - £20
I should hopefully get the money back as the customer behind me said it went back into the slot!
Well I just wanted to know if anyone has had one of these or has heard of anyone that has. I saw my friend and her husband in the town (she's a nurse) and asked her about it. It turns out that her hubbies was high, but when he had it done at the docs it was fine!
I'm not sure why boots do them if they are so inaccurate and wonder if they should continue to do them if they cause so much upset!
Sorry it's a long one, but have been really upset about it.
Sarah x

Sorry about the spelling errors in that last post but for some reason it wouldn't let me alter them!!

Hi
Sorry to hear about the test. It's true what the receptionist says, adhoc tests are often less reliable as they don't have the screening criteria a doctor would use, such as fasting, and don't use the phenomenally expensive equipment that your local biochemistry department uses. As to why a private organisation would do it for free, perhaps they hope it will encourage people to undertake more of their other private medical business or perhaps they hope you'll buy health-related products from them, it's unlikely to have an altruistic motive.
The BBC currently has an article on private screening, though not directly related to your case http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/4175856.stm
Private screening certainly has it's place but it is irresponsible of them to offer it without safeguards such as counselling.
annie

Going to move this out of the SPD forum if you don't mind

Sorry you got a scare, I'm sure it'll be fine. I don't want a test, don't want to know

definitely go to the docs. Once the result of that one is back, then you can sort out your cholesterol with the doctor's help

I don't mind at all - I noticed it had come up there and I'm not sure why, sorry. Still trying to find my way around the site.
Now I'm going to show my ignorance - what's spd?
Sarah x

Symphisis Pubic Dysfunction - something to do with the little gap in your pelvic bone at the front getting too wide (starts during pg when your ligaments are soft). Doesn't always go back very easily and can be very debilitating. There are a few posters who suffer so they have a forum just for that.

Don't worry I know what it is - Yorkiegirl reminded me! I knew that anyway! (DOH)
Sarah x

no problem

Yeah I watched discovery health till it came out my ears when I was having Izzy - still learned lots even though she was my fourth baby! My friend suffered with it too. Just having a blonde moment there.
Thanks anyway.
Sarah x