What is a cholesterol test. Why is it important for heart health. How to prepare for a cholesterol test. What do cholesterol test results mean. How to interpret LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels. When should you get your cholesterol checked. How to manage high cholesterol levels.

The Basics of Cholesterol and Its Impact on Health

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of your body. While it’s essential for various bodily functions, too much cholesterol can lead to serious health problems. Understanding cholesterol and its impact on your health is crucial for maintaining overall well-being.

Your liver produces all the cholesterol your body needs. However, you can also obtain cholesterol from certain foods, particularly those high in saturated fats. These include meat, eggs, poultry, and dairy products. Consuming foods high in dietary fat can stimulate your liver to produce even more cholesterol.

There are two primary types of cholesterol:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as “bad” cholesterol
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL): Known as “good” cholesterol

Excess LDL cholesterol in your bloodstream can increase your risk of developing coronary artery disease and other heart-related conditions. High levels of LDL can lead to the formation of plaque, a sticky substance that accumulates in your arteries. Over time, this plaque buildup can narrow or completely block your arteries, restricting blood flow to vital organs.

When blood flow is obstructed, it can result in various health complications:

• Heart attack: Occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked
• Stroke: Results from blocked blood flow to the brain
• Peripheral artery disease: Develops when blood flow to the arms or legs is obstructed

Decoding the Cholesterol Test: What It Measures and Why

A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid profile or lipid panel, is a comprehensive blood test that provides crucial information about your cardiovascular health. This test measures several components:

1. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) levels: The primary source of arterial blockages
2. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) levels: Helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream
3. Total cholesterol: The combined amount of LDL and HDL in your blood
4. Triglyceride levels: A type of fat in your blood that may increase heart disease risk
5. VLDL (Very Low-Density Lipoprotein) levels: Another type of “bad” cholesterol linked to plaque buildup

Understanding these components is essential for assessing your risk of developing heart disease. If your test results indicate high cholesterol levels, you can take proactive steps to lower them and potentially reduce your risk of future heart problems.

Why is VLDL not routinely measured?

VLDL is not typically included in routine cholesterol tests due to the difficulty in measuring it accurately. However, since approximately half of VLDL consists of triglycerides, your VLDL level can be estimated as a percentage of your triglyceride level. This estimation provides valuable insight into your overall cholesterol profile.

Who Needs a Cholesterol Test and When?

Cholesterol testing is an important part of preventive healthcare. Your healthcare provider may recommend a cholesterol test as part of a routine examination or based on specific risk factors. You may need a cholesterol test if you have:

• A family history of heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Type 2 diabetes
• A smoking habit
• Excess weight or obesity
• A sedentary lifestyle
• A diet high in saturated fat

Age is another crucial factor to consider. As you get older, your risk of developing heart disease increases. Therefore, regular cholesterol testing becomes increasingly important with age.

How often should you get your cholesterol checked?

The frequency of cholesterol testing depends on various factors, including your age, risk factors, and overall health. Generally, adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years. However, if you have risk factors for heart disease or a history of high cholesterol, your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent testing.

The Cholesterol Test Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the cholesterol test procedure can help alleviate any concerns you may have about the process. Here’s what you can expect:

1. A healthcare professional will use a small needle to draw blood from a vein in your arm.
2. A small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial.
3. You may feel a slight sting when the needle is inserted and removed.
4. The entire process typically takes less than five minutes.

For those who prefer a more convenient option, at-home cholesterol testing kits are available. These kits usually include a device to prick your finger and collect a small blood sample for testing. If you choose to use an at-home kit, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and inform your healthcare provider if your total cholesterol level exceeds 200 mg/dl.

Are there any risks associated with cholesterol testing?

Cholesterol testing is generally considered a low-risk procedure. You may experience slight pain or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted, but these symptoms typically subside quickly. The benefits of knowing your cholesterol levels far outweigh the minimal risks associated with the blood draw.

Preparing for Your Cholesterol Test: Important Considerations

Proper preparation is key to ensuring accurate cholesterol test results. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions, but here are some general guidelines:

• Fasting: You may need to fast (avoid eating and drinking) for 9 to 12 hours before the test. This is why cholesterol tests are often scheduled in the morning.
• Medications: Inform your provider about any medications you’re taking, as some can affect cholesterol levels.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test.
• Exercise: Refrain from vigorous exercise for 24 hours prior to the test, as it can temporarily affect cholesterol levels.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions, as they may vary based on your individual health circumstances.

Can I drink water before a cholesterol test?

In most cases, it’s acceptable to drink water before a cholesterol test, even if you’re instructed to fast. Water doesn’t affect your cholesterol levels and can help prevent dehydration. However, it’s best to confirm this with your healthcare provider, as some may prefer complete fasting, including water restriction.

Interpreting Your Cholesterol Test Results: What the Numbers Mean

Understanding your cholesterol test results is crucial for assessing your cardiovascular health. Cholesterol levels are typically measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood. Here’s a general guide to interpreting your results:

Total Cholesterol

• Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 200-239 mg/dL
• High: 240 mg/dL and above

LDL Cholesterol

• Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
• Near optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 130-159 mg/dL
• High: 160-189 mg/dL
• Very high: 190 mg/dL and above

HDL Cholesterol

• Low: Less than 40 mg/dL for men, less than 50 mg/dL for women
• Optimal: 60 mg/dL and above

Triglycerides

• Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 150-199 mg/dL
• High: 200-499 mg/dL
• Very high: 500 mg/dL and above

It’s important to note that these ranges are general guidelines. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your individual health profile, including factors such as age, family history, and other risk factors for heart disease.

What does “calculated” LDL mean on my results?

If you see “calculated” next to your LDL result, it means that your LDL level was estimated based on your total cholesterol, HDL, and triglyceride levels. This estimation is done using a formula called the Friedewald equation. In some cases, your LDL may be measured directly from your blood sample. Both methods are considered reliable for assessing your LDL levels.

Managing High Cholesterol: Lifestyle Changes and Treatment Options

If your cholesterol test results indicate high levels, don’t panic. There are several effective strategies for managing high cholesterol:

Lifestyle Modifications

• Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit saturated and trans fats.
• Increase physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Losing excess weight can help lower LDL and increase HDL levels.
• Quit smoking: Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can raise triglyceride levels.

Medications

If lifestyle changes alone aren’t sufficient, your healthcare provider may recommend medication to help manage your cholesterol levels. Common cholesterol-lowering medications include:

• Statins: These drugs block a substance your liver needs to make cholesterol.
• Bile acid sequestrants: These medications help remove cholesterol from the bloodstream.
• Cholesterol absorption inhibitors: These drugs reduce the amount of cholesterol absorbed from food.
• PCSK9 inhibitors: These newer medications can dramatically lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual needs and risk factors.

How long does it take to lower cholesterol through lifestyle changes?

The time it takes to see improvements in your cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes can vary. Some people may notice changes within a few weeks, while for others, it may take several months. Consistency is key. Stick to your healthy lifestyle changes, and have your cholesterol rechecked as recommended by your healthcare provider to monitor your progress.

Beyond Cholesterol: Other Factors Affecting Heart Health

While managing cholesterol levels is crucial for heart health, it’s important to remember that other factors also play a significant role in cardiovascular well-being. A comprehensive approach to heart health should consider:

• Blood pressure management: High blood pressure can damage arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.
• Blood sugar control: Diabetes and pre-diabetes can contribute to heart disease.
• Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health.
• Sleep quality: Poor sleep has been linked to increased cardiovascular risk.
• Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the body can contribute to heart disease.

Work with your healthcare provider to address all aspects of your cardiovascular health, not just cholesterol levels. Regular check-ups, including cholesterol tests, blood pressure measurements, and other screening tests, can help you stay on top of your heart health.

How does inflammation affect heart health?

Inflammation plays a complex role in heart health. While acute inflammation is a normal part of the body’s healing process, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development and progression of heart disease. Inflammation can damage the inner lining of blood vessels, promote the formation of plaque, and increase the risk of blood clots. Managing inflammation through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction can contribute to better heart health.

Understanding cholesterol and its impact on your health is an essential step towards maintaining a healthy heart. Regular cholesterol testing, combined with a heart-healthy lifestyle and appropriate medical care, can significantly reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Remember, your cholesterol levels are just one piece of the puzzle – a holistic approach to heart health is key to long-term well-being.

Cholesterol Levels: MedlinePlus Medical Test

What is a Cholesterol Test?

A cholesterol test is a blood test that measures the amount of cholesterol and certain fats in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in your blood and every cell of your body. You need some cholesterol to keep your cells and organs healthy.

Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. But you can also get cholesterol from the foods you eat, especially meat, eggs, poultry, and dairy products. Foods that are high in dietary fat can also make your liver produce more cholesterol.

There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol.

Too much LDL cholesterol in your blood increases your risk for coronary artery disease and other heart diseases. High LDL levels can cause the buildup of a sticky substance called plaque in your arteries. Over time, plaque can narrow your arteries or fully block them. When this happens, parts of your body don’t get enough blood:

• If the blood flow to the heart is blocked, it can cause a heart attack.
• If the blood flow to the brain is blocked, it can cause a stroke.
• If the blood flow to the arms or legs is blocked, it can cause peripheral artery disease.

Other names for a cholesterol test: Lipid profile, Lipid panel

What is it used for?

A cholesterol test gives you and your health care provider important information about your risk of developing heart disease. If your test shows you have high cholesterol, you can take steps to lower it. This may decrease your risk of developing heart problems in the future. A cholesterol test measures:

• LDL levels. Also known as the “bad” cholesterol, LDL is the main source of blockages in the arteries.
• HDL levels. Considered the “good” cholesterol, HDL helps get rid of “bad” LDL cholesterol.
• Total cholesterol. The combined amount of LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol in your blood.
• Triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. Some studies show that high levels of triglycerides may increase the risk of heart disease, especially in women.
• VLDL levels. Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) is another type of “bad” cholesterol. High VLDL levels have been linked to plaque buildup in the arteries. VLDL isn’t usually included in routine cholesterol tests because it’s difficult to measure. About half of VLDL is triglycerides, so your VLDL level can be estimated as a percentage of your triglyceride level.

Why do I need a cholesterol test?

Your provider may order a cholesterol test as part of a routine exam. You may also have a cholesterol test if you have a family history of heart disease or if your risk for heart problems is high because of:

• High blood pressure
• Type 2 diabetes
• Smoking
• Excess weight or obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• A diet high in saturated fat

Your age may also be a factor, because your risk for heart disease increases as you get older.

What happens during a cholesterol test?

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

You may be able to use an at-home kit to check your cholesterol levels. Your kit will include a device to prick your finger to collect a drop of blood for testing. Be sure to follow the kit instructions carefully. Also, be sure to tell your provider if your at-home test shows that your total cholesterol level is higher than 200 mg/dl.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for 9 to 12 hours before your blood cholesterol test. That’s why the tests are often done in the morning. Your provider will let you know if you need to fast and if there are any other special instructions.

Are there any risks to the test?

There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may experience slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.

What do the results mean?

Cholesterol is usually measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood. The information below will help you understand what your test results mean. In general, low LDL levels and high HDL cholesterol levels are good for heart health.

The LDL listed on your results may say “calculated.” This means that your LDL level is an estimate based on your total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides. Your LDL level may also be measured “directly” from your blood sample. Either way, you want your LDL number to be low.

A healthy cholesterol level for you may depend on your age, family history, lifestyle, and other risk factors for heart disease, such as high triglyceride levels. Your provider can explain what’s right for you.

Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.

Is there anything else I need to know about my cholesterol levels?

High cholesterol can lead to heart disease, the number one cause of death in the United States. You can’t change some risk factors for high cholesterol, such as age and your genes. But there are actions you can take to lower your LDL levels and reduce your risk, including:

• Eating a healthy diet. Reducing or avoiding foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol can help reduce the cholesterol levels in your blood.
• Losing weight. Being overweight can increase your cholesterol and risk for heart disease.
• Staying active. Regular exercise may help lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and raise your HDL (good) cholesterol levels. It may also help you lose weight.

Talk to your provider before making any major change in your diet or exercise routine.

References

1. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. About Cholesterol; [last reviewed 2020 Nov 6; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/AboutCholesterol/About-Cholesterol_UCM_001220_Article.jsp
2. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. HDL (Good), LDL (Bad) Cholesterol and Triglycerides; [last reviewed 2020 Nov 6; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/AboutCholesterol/Good-vs-Bad-Cholesterol_UCM_305561_Article.jsp
3. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. How To Get Your Cholesterol Tested; [last reviewed: 2020 Nov 9; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/how-to-get-your-cholesterol-tested
4. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. Prevention and Treatment of High Cholesterol; [last reviewed 2020 Nov 11; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 7 screens]. Available from: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/PreventionTreatmentofHighCholesterol/Prevention-and-Treatment-of-High-Cholesterol_UCM_001215_Article.jsp
5. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean; [last reviewed 2020 Nov 6; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/AboutCholesterol/What-Your-Cholesterol-Levels-Mean_UCM_305562_Article.jsp
6. FDA: US Food and Drug Administration [Internet]. Silver Spring (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Cholesterol; [current as of 2018 Feb 4; cited 2019 Jan 25]; [about 4 screens]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/home-use-tests/cholesterol
7. Healthfinder.gov. [Internet]. Washington D.C.: Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; National Health Information Center; Get Your Cholesterol Checked; [updated 2021 Oct 7; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 7 screens]. Available from: https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/topics/doctor-visits/screening-tests/get-your-cholesterol-checked
8. Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c1998-2022. Cholesterol Test [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cholesterol-test/about/pac-20384601
9. Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c1998-2022. High Cholesterol [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms-causes/syc-20350800
10. Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c1998-2022.VLDL cholesterol: Is it harmful? [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/expert-answers/vldl-cholesterol/faq-20058275
11. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; High Blood Cholesterol: What You Need to Know; 2001 May [revised 2005 Jun; cited 2017 Jan 26]; [about 6 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/all-publications-and-resources/high-blood-cholesterol-what-you-need-know
12. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Cholesterol: Diagnosis [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 20 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-cholesterol
13. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Cholesterol: Overview [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 4 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-cholesterol
14. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Tests: What Are the Risks of Blood Tests? [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 5 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-tests
15. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Tests: What To Expect with Blood Tests; [cited 2017 Jan 25]; [about 1 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-tests
16. Quest Diagnostics [Internet].Quest Diagnostics; c2000-2022. Test Summary: LDL Cholesterol; [reviewed 2020 Dec; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://testdirectory.questdiagnostics.com/test/test-guides/TS_LDL_Cholesterol/ldl-cholesterol?p=td

Understanding Your Blood Test Results – HDL and LDL and More

Understanding Your Blood Test Results – HDL and LDL and More | Edward-Elmhurst Health

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December 18, 2017
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by Alison Sage, D. O.

Categories: Healthy Driven Life

What, exactly, is the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol (which one’s good)? And what are triglycerides?

Why should you care about how many white or red blood cells you have circulating?

Because your blood can tell you a lot about how healthy you are. There is so much information pumping through your veins. Doctors can see whether you’re diabetic, anemic or fighting an infection. They can gather clues to how well your liver, heart or thyroid is working.

Blood tests are often part of a routine check-up, as doctors analyze how your body is working. Unless you’re a medical professional, however, the results can be hard to decipher.
Let’s run down common lab tests. When you go to your primary care physician for a check-up, your doctor may want to do a blood draw to check your cholesterol, your blood count (how many red and white blood cells and platelets you have circulating), and a basic metabolic or chemistry panel.

• Lipid panel = cholesterol. Your doctor will order a lipid panel to get a picture of your cholesterol. Cholesterol is broken up into “good” (HDL) and “bad” (LDL). When LDL or “bad” cholesterol builds up in your arteries it can slow your blood flow, potentially leading to a heart attack or stroke. High cholesterol has no symptoms, so the blood test is vital. Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood that’s different from cholesterol. If your triglycerides are high, they could contribute to hardening of your arteries the way high LDL cholesterol can. You want your HDL cholesterol to be higher than 45 milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood. You want your LDL to be less than 130 mg/dL. Triglycerides should be less than 150 mg/dL, and your total cholesterol shouldn’t break 200 mg/dL. As Mayo Clinic reports, if you’re at an average risk of developing heart disease, it’s a good idea to get your cholesterol checked every five years starting at age 18.
• Complete blood count (CBC). This is a routine test to evaluate your general health. It can also detect a range of diseases, so doctors order this test to shed light on symptoms like fatigue or bruises. The CBC checks your levels of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. White blood cells help fight infection, so you’d have a higher number if that’s the case. A high or low number of red blood cells could indicate different diseases. Platelets, which help your blood clot, outside a normal range could also indicate disease.
• Basic vs. complete/comprehensive metabolic panel. The basic metabolic panel tests your blood glucose (blood sugar), kidney function, and levels of calcium, sodium and potassium. The complete metabolic panel includes all those tests plus liver function tests. These tests could be ordered as part of a routine check-up or if your doctor wants to check for specific diseases.
• Thyroid function. This test checks the level of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. A high count could signify hypothyroidism; a low count, hyperthyroidism. Both conditions come with a host of symptoms, and this test can help your doctor rule out other diseases.

It’s important to find a physician you feel comfortable with and confident in, who partners with you in your personal health goals. Find the right Healthy Driven doctor for you.

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Blood test for cholesterol – lipidogram interpretation

We used to think of cholesterol as the number one enemy. But everything turned out to be not so simple – life without cholesterol is impossible, and it can be not only “bad”, but also “good”.

Doctor’s consultation

You can get the consultation of the necessary specialist online in the Doctis application

Laboratory

You can undergo a comprehensive examination of all major body systems

• Triglycerides (TG)
• Total cholesterol (CHOL).
• HDL Cholesterol (HDL)
• LDL Cholesterol (LDL)
• VLDL Cholesterol (VLDL)
• Index (coefficient) of atherogenicity

In order to determine the risk of developing vascular atherosclerosis, it is enough to take an analysis for a general
cholesterol. If the indicator is normal, you can not worry. True, in case nothing bothers you,
and behind him is a good heredity for cardiovascular diseases. If not, or the indicator
increased, it is important to pass a full-fledged lipid profile and find out the “balance of power” between various
fractions of cholesterol and consult a specialist in a timely manner.

Cholesterol test: basic indicators

Triglycerides (TG). Norm – 0.41−1.8 mmol / l

Triglycerides are the main depot of fats in our body, they are formed in the liver. Most
cases, elevated levels of triglycerides (the so-called blood chylosis) are the result of malnutrition with excess
fatty foods and carbohydrates, so you need to take the test no earlier than 9 hours after the last dose
food. The reason for the increase may be primary (hereditary) hyperlipidaemias and, much more frequently,
secondary hyperlipidemias, of which are malnutrition, obesity,
glucose tolerance and diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, gout, diseases of the liver, pancreas and kidneys.
It can also be caused by stress, alcohol abuse, and certain medications.
(beta-blockers, corticosteroids, diuretics and some others). A decrease in values ​​is fixed with insufficient
nutrition, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, long-term vitamin C intake.

Total cholesterol (CHOL). Norm – 3.2-5.6 mmol / l

The most important lipid, which is a structural component of all cell membranes, a precursor of sex hormones,
corticosteroids, bile acids and vitamin D. Up to 80% of cholesterol is synthesized in the liver, the rest
enters our body with food. The content of cholesterol in the blood depends to a large extent
from age, so for a baby the upper limit of the norm is 5.25 mmol / l , and for a man over 70
– 6.86 mmol/l . Cholesterol is transported by messengers called lipoproteins
of which there are three main types – high density, low density and very low
density. An increase in total cholesterol, as well as triglycerides, occurs in primary and secondary
hyperlipidemias.

Despite the fact that in screening studies, averaged
the boundaries of total cholesterol (5.6 mmol / l) and its components, currently doctors use tables
norms according to gender and age. Therefore, if the indicators deviate, to decipher the analysis, refer to
doctor.

HDL cholesterol (HDL). Norm – not less than 0.9 mmol / l

This fraction of cholesterol is involved in the transport of cholesterol from peripheral tissues to the liver. This
means that they take cholesterol from the surface of blood vessels, including the legs, heart, brain, and carry
it to the liver. This means that HDL plays an important anti-atherogenic role, preventing the formation of cholesterol plaques and the development
atherosclerosis. And if the level of total cholesterol is increased due to HDL cholesterol, this is considered good
prognostic factor, and cholesterol should not be lowered. At the same time, the decrease in the level of “good”
cholesterol below 0. 90 mmol/l for men and 1.15 mmol/l for women is considered
risk factor for atherosclerosis.

LDL cholesterol (LDL). Norm – 1.71−3.5 mmol / l

Low density lipoproteins are the main carrier of cholesterol in our body. It is he who spreads
fat synthesized in the liver to organs and tissues. It is believed that LDL cholesterol levels
significantly more influence on the development of atherosclerosis than the level of total cholesterol. That is why it became
called “bad” cholesterol. In conditions when the vascular wall is compromised by factors
risk (nicotine, high glucose, homocysteine, increased blood pressure), cholesterol from
LDL is deposited in it, forming an atherosclerotic plaque. For people with risk factors for atherosclerosis
(age – more than 45 years for men and 55 years for women, cases of early death from cardiovascular
diseases among relatives, smoking, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity) cholesterol level
LDL should not exceed 3. 37 mmol/l , values ​​from 3.37 to 4.12
mmol/l is regarded as an average risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis, and is above 4.14
mmol/l – as high.

VLDL cholesterol (VLDL). Norm – 0.26−1.04 mmol / l

These lipoproteins are synthesized in the liver and small intestine and serve as LDL precursors, i.e.
also belong to carriers of “bad” cholesterol.

Index (coefficient) of atherogenicity

This is an indicator that can be calculated based on the results of the lipid profile.

An indicator in the range from 2.0 to 2.5 units is considered normal. Maximum values
the norms are 3.2 for women and 3.5 for men. Anything above is significant
risk of developing atherosclerosis and requires measures to reduce it, which can be both non-drug
(changing diet, losing weight, quitting smoking, fighting physical inactivity, taking various dietary supplements), so
and medication (taking drugs from various groups, mainly statins).
If necessary, the doctor will individually select the drug for you

The author of the article: Aleksey Yurievich Fedorov

How cholesterol is indicated in a blood test

We know that cholesterol is one of the main culprits of atherosclerosis and its complications: heart attack and stroke. Is it always necessary to sound the alarm when blood cholesterol is elevated?

Doctor’s consultation

You can get the consultation of the necessary specialist online in the Doctis application

Laboratory

You can undergo a comprehensive examination of all major body systems

We remind you that on our portal you can find Dr. Fedorov’s answers to questions about how
correctly decipher indicators in general analyzes
urine and blood, biochemical
blood test, analysis
blood for lipid profile, analysis
urinary sediment. And also you can find out what some changes in the electrocardiogram mean.

• Cholesterol – friend or foe?
• Good and bad cholesterol
• What are triglycerides?
• Norm of cholesterol in the blood
• Atherogenic coefficient

Why is cholesterol considered the number one enemy of our blood vessels?

In fact, cholesterol is more of a friend than an enemy. After all, imagine life without this “builder”, which is part of
the cell wall of all our organs and tissues is impossible. In addition to the frame function, it has at least
important: the main role in the production of bile acids, vitamin D, most hormones (cortisol, aldosterone,
testosterone, estrogens, progesterone, etc.). However, a number
studies conducted from the 60s of the last century to the present day, convincingly proved the connection
hypercholesterolemia (increased cholesterol levels) and dyslipidemia (disturbances in the ratio of lipids in the blood
due to the excess of some and a decrease in the concentration of others) with the risk of developing atherosclerosis
vessels.

Vascular atherosclerosis is caused by the deposition of cholesterol in the inner wall
vessels with the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, causing a violation of the blood supply to the heart (angina pectoris,
myocardial infarction), brain (ischemic stroke), lower extremities (intermittent claudication, gangrene) and others
organs.

Why is good and bad cholesterol distinguished?

Further research has shown that an increase in total cholesterol does not always indicate an increase in
the risk of atherosclerosis. The fact is that cholesterol is not present in the blood in a free form, it is bound
with carriers – lipoproteins. To peripheral organs and tissues (including
vascular wall) it is carried by low and very low density lipoproteins (LDL and VLDL), and from tissues
high-density lipoproteins (HDL) are transported to the liver. It turned out that a high level of general
cholesterol due to LDL and VLDL is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, and an increase due to
HDL, on the contrary, helps to reduce this risk. And if the first situation requires lowering cholesterol levels and drug
treatment, the second one does not need correction.

Cholesterol in the composition of LDL and VLDL is called “bad”, and in the composition
HDL is “good”. These cholesterol transporters are designated separately (LDL and HDL) in the expanded
a blood test for cholesterol, which is called a “lipid profile”.

What are triglycerides? What does an increase in their level in the blood indicate?

Triglycerides, along with cholesterol, are another “fat depot” of our body. But unlike
from the latter, they are not produced in the liver, but are completely supplied with food. chief
way from meat and dairy products with high fat content.

Triglyceride levels fluctuate throughout the day: after the first meal, their concentration
in the blood increases rapidly and remains at this level for 9-12 hours. Therefore, a blood test for lipid
the profile should be taken no earlier than 12 hours after a meal.

The main evidence of an increase in triglyceride levels is an unhealthy diet with excess
animal fats. In addition, triglyceride levels increase with diabetes mellitus and impaired glucose tolerance,
fatty hepatosis and cirrhosis of the liver, pathology of the gallbladder and bile ducts, with some other
diseases, as well as during pregnancy.

What level of total cholesterol can be considered normal?

Norms of cholesterol in the blood depend on age. In a newborn, its level does not exceed 3
mmol/l. Later, gender differences appear in cholesterol levels: in men in the young and middle
With age, its level rises faster than in women, and in old age, on the contrary, it decreases. Representatives
of the weaker sex, the level of cholesterol before menopause increases rather slowly, but after the onset
the menopause quite quickly “catches up” with the male concentration and can exceed it. This is due to the impact
sex hormones – androgens increase cholesterol levels, and estrogens, on the contrary,
decrease.

The average age norm of cholesterol in the blood is considered to be 5.2 mmol/L. If
cholesterol level is increased more than 6.22 mmol / l, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases is significantly increased
diseases.

The level in the “corridor” from 5.2 to 6.22 mmol / l is considered intermediate, to assess possible
risks in this case, pay attention to the ratio of “bad” and “good”
cholesterol, the concentration of triglycerides, calculate the coefficient of atherogenicity.

What is the coefficient of atherogenicity?

This indicator allows you to visually assess the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Normal coefficient
atherogenicity is 2−3. With an increase from 3 to 4, the risk of developing atherosclerosis and related
with it, cardiovascular diseases are assessed as moderate, more than 4 – high. In some
cases, the atherogenic coefficient exceeds 7 – then they speak of an extremely high risk of cardiovascular
diseases.