I took a blood test two weeks ago (which didn't require fasting but I went in before I ate anything anyway) and my total cholesterol showed 182 (didn't show any specifics like ldl, hdl or triglycerides) So I asked the doctor for a lipid test with all the specifics, and he ordered it for me (this one said to take the test at fasting). So 4 and a half weeks later (last Monday), I went to get the blood test done before eating anything in the morning, and this time, the total cholesterol came back at 231 (which is kind of high).

How come my total cholesterol numbers are so different? There was only 4 weeks in between. Is this normal? What are the factors that could change my total number like that? Do they perform two totally different tests if one is for fasting and the other one doesn' t care?

Any input/information is greatly appreciated.



tmo