Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
It's part of a lipid panel.
Eating, alcohol, and poorly controlled diabetes raise triglycerides.
Why it's done
- Heart risk checks
- Diabetes, obesity, or fatty liver
- Past pancreatitis
Getting ready and what happens
- Your provider may ask you to fast for 9 to 12 hours. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
What the results mean
| Result | Typical range for adults |
|---|---|
| Normal | Below 150 mg/dL |
| Borderline high | 150 to 199 mg/dL |
| High | 200 to 499 mg/dL |
| Very high | 500 mg/dL or higher |
Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and can differ by age, sex, and pregnancy. Your report lists your lab's own range next to each result. A result a little outside the range is often not a problem.
High
Cutting sugar, refined carbs, and alcohol, losing weight, and exercising help. Medicine may be added.
Very high
Raises pancreatitis risk; treatment is needed.
When a result needs quick action
Call 911Severe upper belly pain spreading to the back
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.