What are the common causes of low blood pressure. How can you recognize the symptoms of hypotension. What treatment options are available for managing low blood pressure. When should you seek medical attention for hypotension.

What is Low Blood Pressure and How is it Defined?

Low blood pressure, medically known as hypotension, occurs when blood pressure readings fall significantly below the normal range. While normal blood pressure typically ranges between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg, hypotension is generally defined as a blood pressure reading below 90/60 mmHg. However, it’s important to note that blood pressure can vary from person to person, and a drop of just 20 mmHg can cause problems for some individuals.

There are several types of low blood pressure, including:

• Orthostatic hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions, such as standing up from a lying or sitting position
• Postprandial orthostatic hypotension: A type of orthostatic hypotension that occurs after eating, primarily affecting older adults and those with certain medical conditions
• Neurally mediated hypotension (NMH): Most common in young adults and children, often triggered by prolonged standing
• Severe hypotension (shock): A critical condition caused by sudden blood loss, severe infection, heart attack, or anaphylaxis

What Are the Common Causes of Low Blood Pressure?

Low blood pressure can be attributed to various factors, including medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle choices. Some common causes include:

Medications and Substances

• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Heart medications, including those for treating high blood pressure and coronary heart disease
• Diuretics
• Painkillers
• Alcohol

Medical Conditions

• Heart failure
• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms)
• Dehydration
• Nerve damage from diabetes or other disorders
• Endocrine disorders
• Severe infections or sepsis

Can pregnancy cause low blood pressure? Yes, it’s common for blood pressure to decrease during pregnancy, especially in the first and second trimesters. This is due to hormonal changes and the expansion of the circulatory system to accommodate the growing fetus.

How to Recognize the Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure

Identifying the symptoms of low blood pressure is crucial for timely intervention. Common symptoms include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting (syncope)
• Blurry vision
• Confusion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Weakness
• Fatigue or sleepiness

Do all individuals with low blood pressure experience symptoms? Not necessarily. Some people may have chronically low blood pressure without any noticeable symptoms, especially if their body has adapted to lower pressure over time.

Diagnosing Low Blood Pressure: What to Expect

If you’re experiencing symptoms of low blood pressure, your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause. The diagnostic process may include:

1. Reviewing your medical history and current medications
2. Checking your vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, breathing rate, and temperature
3. Asking about recent illnesses, accidents, or injuries
4. Inquiring about your symptoms and their frequency

Additional tests that may be ordered include:

• Basic metabolic panel
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Blood cultures to check for infections
• Urinalysis
• Abdominal and chest X-rays

How often should blood pressure be monitored in individuals prone to hypotension? For those with a history of low blood pressure or at risk of developing it, regular monitoring is essential. This may involve daily home measurements or more frequent check-ups with a healthcare provider, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.

Treatment Options for Managing Low Blood Pressure

The treatment approach for low blood pressure depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. In some cases, asymptomatic low blood pressure in an otherwise healthy individual may not require treatment. However, when symptoms are present or the cause is identifiable, several treatment options are available:

Immediate Interventions

• Sitting or lying down with feet elevated above heart level
• Increasing fluid intake to combat dehydration
• Wearing compression stockings to prevent blood pooling in the legs

Medication Adjustments

If medications are contributing to low blood pressure, your healthcare provider may:

• Adjust dosages of current medications
• Switch to alternative medications with fewer hypotensive side effects
• Prescribe medications to increase blood pressure in severe cases

Lifestyle Modifications

• Increasing salt intake (under medical supervision)
• Avoiding triggers such as prolonged standing
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals to prevent postprandial hypotension
• Staying hydrated throughout the day

Can exercise help improve low blood pressure? Yes, regular exercise can help improve circulation and strengthen the cardiovascular system, potentially helping to regulate blood pressure. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have a history of hypotension.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Low Blood Pressure

While mild hypotension may not always require immediate medical attention, there are certain situations where seeking prompt medical care is crucial:

• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Severe dizziness or lightheadedness that doesn’t improve with lying down
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Signs of shock, such as cold, clammy skin or rapid, shallow breathing
• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C) accompanying low blood pressure symptoms
• Black or maroon stools, which may indicate internal bleeding

How quickly should one seek medical attention for severe hypotension? In cases of severe hypotension, especially if accompanied by signs of shock or loss of consciousness, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary. Call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

Preventing Complications of Low Blood Pressure

While low blood pressure can often be managed effectively, it’s important to be aware of potential complications and take steps to prevent them:

Falls and Injuries

Older adults with hypotension are at increased risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries such as hip or spine fractures. To reduce this risk:

• Use assistive devices like canes or walkers if recommended by your healthcare provider
• Make your living environment safer by removing tripping hazards and installing handrails
• Practice caution when changing positions, especially when getting out of bed

Organ Damage

Severe drops in blood pressure can temporarily deprive organs of oxygen, potentially leading to damage. To minimize this risk:

• Follow your treatment plan closely
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly

Can chronic low blood pressure lead to long-term health issues? While chronic low blood pressure is generally less concerning than chronic high blood pressure, it can still impact quality of life and, in some cases, lead to complications if left untreated. Regular medical follow-ups are important for managing chronic hypotension effectively.

Living with Low Blood Pressure: Tips for Daily Management

For individuals diagnosed with chronic hypotension, incorporating certain strategies into daily life can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being:

Dietary Considerations

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day
• Consider increasing salt intake if recommended by your healthcare provider
• Eat small, frequent meals to avoid postprandial hypotension
• Limit alcohol consumption, as it can exacerbate low blood pressure

Lifestyle Adaptations

• Rise slowly from lying or sitting positions
• Avoid standing for prolonged periods
• Elevate the head of your bed slightly to prevent morning dizziness
• Engage in regular, moderate exercise as approved by your healthcare provider

Monitoring and Communication

• Keep a blood pressure log to track trends and identify triggers
• Communicate regularly with your healthcare team about any changes in symptoms or concerns
• Educate family members or caregivers about your condition and what to do in case of emergencies

How can one maintain an active lifestyle while managing low blood pressure? With proper management and precautions, many individuals with low blood pressure can maintain an active lifestyle. It’s important to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and avoid situations that may trigger symptoms. Gradually increasing activity levels and working closely with your healthcare provider can help you find a balance that allows for both safety and enjoyment of physical activities.

In conclusion, understanding low blood pressure, its causes, symptoms, and management strategies is crucial for those affected by this condition. While hypotension can present challenges, with proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, most individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. Regular communication with healthcare providers, adherence to treatment plans, and awareness of potential complications are key components of successfully living with low blood pressure.

Low blood pressure: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Low blood pressure occurs when blood pressure is much lower than normal. This means the heart, brain, and other parts of the body may not get enough blood. Normal blood pressure is mostly between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg.

The medical word for low blood pressure is hypotension.

Blood pressure varies from one person to another. A drop of as little as 20 mmHg can cause problems for some people. There are different types and causes of low blood pressure.

Severe hypotension (shock) can be caused by sudden loss of blood (shock), severe infection, heart attack, or severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

Orthostatic hypotension means your blood pressure drops when you shift from lying down to standing. This type of low blood pressure usually lasts only a few seconds or minutes. If this type of low blood pressure occurs after eating, it is called postprandial orthostatic hypotension. This type most often affects older adults, those with high blood pressure, and people with Parkinson disease.

Neurally mediated hypotension (NMH) most often affects young adults and children. It can occur when a person has been standing for a long time. Children usually outgrow this type of hypotension.

Certain medicines and substances can lead to low blood pressure, including:

• Alcohol
• Anti-anxiety medicines
• Certain antidepressants
• Diuretics
• Heart medicines, including those used to treat high blood pressure and coronary heart disease
• Medicines used for surgery
• Painkillers

Other causes of low blood pressure include:

• Nerve damage from diabetes or other disorders
• Changes in heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
• Not drinking enough fluids (dehydration)
• Heart failure

Symptoms of low blood pressure may include:

• Blurry vision
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Fainting (syncope)
• Lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sleepiness
• Weakness

The health care provider will examine you to determine the cause of your low blood pressure. Your vital signs (temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, and blood pressure) will be checked frequently. You may need to stay in the hospital for a while.

The provider will ask questions, including:

• What is your normal blood pressure?
• What medicines do you take?
• Have you been eating and drinking normally?
• Have you had any recent illness, accident, or injury?
• What other symptoms do you have?
• Did you faint or become less alert?
• Do you feel dizzy or lightheaded when standing or sitting after lying down?

The following tests may be done:

• Basic metabolic panel
• Blood cultures to check for infection
• Complete blood count (CBC), including white blood cell differential
• 
  Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Urinalysis
• X-ray of the abdomen
• X-ray of the chest

Lower than normal blood pressure in a healthy person that does not cause any symptoms often does not need treatment. Otherwise, treatment depends on the cause of your low blood pressure and your symptoms.

When you have symptoms from low blood pressure, sit or lie down right away. Then raise your feet above heart level.

Severe hypotension caused by shock is a medical emergency. You may be given:

• Blood or other fluids through a needle (IV)
• Medicines to increase blood pressure and improve heart strength
• Other medicines, such as antibiotics

Treatments for low blood pressure after standing up too quickly include:

• If medicines are the cause, your provider may change the dosage or switch you to a different medicine. Do not stop taking any medicines before talking to your provider.
• Your provider may suggest drinking more fluids to treat dehydration.
• Wearing compression stockings can help keep blood from collecting in the legs. This keeps more blood in the upper body.

People with NMH should avoid triggers, such as standing for a long period of time. Other treatments include drinking fluids and increasing salt in your diet. Talk to your provider before trying these measures. In severe cases, medicines may be prescribed.

Low blood pressure can usually be treated with success.

Falls due to low blood pressure in older adults can lead to a broken hip or spine fracture. These injuries can reduce a person’s health and ability to move about.

Sudden severe drops in your blood pressure starves your body of oxygen. This can lead to damage of the heart, brain, and other organs. This type of low blood pressure can be life threatening if not treated right away.

If low blood pressure causes a person to pass out (become unconscious), seek treatment right away. Or call 911 or the local emergency number. If the person is not breathing or has no pulse, begin CPR.

Call your provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Black or maroon stools
• Chest pain
• Dizziness, lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Fever higher than 101°F (38. 3°C)
• Irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath

Your provider may recommend certain steps to prevent or reduce your symptoms including:

• Drinking more fluids
• Getting up slowly after sitting or lying down
• Not drinking alcohol
• Not standing for a long time (if you have NMH)
• Using compression stockings so blood does not collect in the legs

Hypotension; Blood pressure – low; Postprandial hypotension; Orthostatic hypotension; Neurally mediated hypotension; NMH

Calkins H, Everett TH, Chen P-S. Hypotension and syncope. In: Libby P, Bonow RO, Mann DL, Tomaselli GF, Bhatt DL, Solomon SD, eds. Braunwald’s Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 71.

Schrigern DL. Approach to the patient with abnormal vital signs. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 7.

Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

What causes low blood pressure (hypotension) and how to increase it

Possible causes of low blood pressure, or hypotension, range from dehydration to a heart condition. Hypotension can lead to dizziness and other symptoms. Drinking more water may help, but some people will need medication.

Low blood pressure may be genetic or occur as a result of aging. In some cases, a temporary factor, such as pregnancy or dehydration, is responsible. In others, low blood pressure results from an underlying disease or a severe reaction.

Changing dietary habits may be enough to treat temporary causes of low blood pressure. Alternatively, a doctor may prescribe medication or change an existing treatment plan if it is likely responsible for this symptom.

Anyone with symptoms of low blood pressure, such as dizziness and fatigue, should receive medical attention.

Below, learn what counts as low blood pressure, what underlying factors may be at play, and what the treatments involve.

The heart pumps blood around the body, continuously delivering oxygen and other nutrients. Blood pressure refers to the force of blood pushing against the artery walls as the heart pumps.

In a person with low blood pressure, blood flows through the veins and arteries with too little force.

Doctors use two figures to denote blood pressure. The first refers to systolic blood pressure, which is the force of the blood against artery walls when the heart beats. The second refers to diastolic blood pressure, which is the force of the blood when the heart rests between beats.

Healthcare professionals measure blood pressure readings in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). A normal reading is less than 120 mm Hg systolic and 80 mm Hg diastolic, which doctors write as “less than 120/80 mm Hg. ”

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute define low blood pressure as under 90/60 mm Hg.

It is possible to have low blood pressure without any symptoms. However, some people with this issue may experience:

• weakness
• fainting
• dizziness
• tiredness
• nausea
• dehydration
• trouble concentrating
• blurred vision
• cold, clammy skin
• depression
• rapid, shallow breathing

Many factors affect blood pressure, including the time of day and a person’s physical activity levels and diet. Blood pressure also declines with age, and some people have naturally low blood pressure due to genetic factors.

Temporary causes

A person’s blood pressure may be lower than usual due to:

• eating
• straining
• long periods of inactivity, such as bed rest
• dehydration
• pregnancy

Some temporary causes, such as pregnancy, resolve on their own. Others may require dietary changes and other care or management strategies.

More serious or lasting causes

Some potentially more severe health issues can also cause low blood pressure, including:

• Nutrient deficiencies: These might involve vitamin B12 or folic acid.
• Neurally mediated hypotension: This disorder causes a drop in blood pressure after the person has been standing up for a prolonged period.
• Endocrine problems: These affect the regulation of the body’s hormones. One example is hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid.
• Heart problems: These can limit how effectively the heart pushes blood around the body.
• Septic shock: This is a potentially life threatening response to a severe bacterial infection.
• Anaphylactic shock: This is a potentially life threatening complication of anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction.

In addition, loss of blood due to an injury can lead to low blood pressure.

Drug-based causes

Low blood pressure may sometimes result from alcohol use or the use of certain medications, such as:

• diuretics
• hypertension medications
• heart medications, such as beta-blockers
• antidepressants
• erectile dysfunction medications
• medications for Parkinson’s disease

To address low blood pressure, a doctor may adjust the dosage of an existing drug or recommend medications to increase blood pressure. Medications that they may prescribe include fludrocortisone and midodrine.

Also, a person may benefit from:

• drinking more water throughout the day
• avoiding alcohol, which can cause dehydration
• eating more healthful, high sodium foods
• drinking tomato juice or sports drinks
• wearing compression socks that extend to the thighs or waist
• moving the legs to stimulate blood flow before getting out of bed

Learn about the low blood pressure diet here.

Low blood pressure symptoms can disrupt daily life, and they generally become more serious with age.

It is important to contact a doctor if any of these symptoms, such as dizziness and fatigue, occur. A doctor can identify the cause and recommend the best treatment approach.

People experiencing any specific signs of anaphylactic or septic shock require emergency care.

Signs of anaphylactic shock include:

• a rash
• diarrhea
• congestion
• breathing difficulties
• fainting, dizziness, or confusion
• swelling of the mouth, tongue, throat, or lips
• trouble swallowing

Some signs of septic shock include:

• symptoms of an infection, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or a sore throat
• shortness of breath
• a fever
• shivering
• sweaty or clammy skin
• extreme discomfort
• a high heart rate
• confusion or disorientation

Low blood pressure refers to the blood circulating with a low level of force. It can cause a range of symptoms, including dizziness and nausea.

Blood pressure naturally fluctuates throughout the day, and it declines with age. Longer lasting low blood pressure may result from a temporary issue, a chronic illness, or an emergency, such as septic shock.

Anyone who has persistent symptoms of low blood pressure should consult a doctor. Anyone experiencing a sudden, significant drop in blood pressure should receive urgent care.

Test for HDL cholesterol (High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol) to pass in Moscow

I confirm

More

• INVITRO
• Analyzes
• org/ListItem”> Biochemical…
• Lipids
• HDL cholesterol…

• • Examination program for office workers
  • Domestic personnel survey
  • Cardiovascular risk assessment
  • Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) diagnosis
  • COVID-19
  • Liver function assessment
  • Kidney and genitourinary assessment
  • Gastrointestinal assessment tract
  • Diagnosis of connective tissue diseases
  • Diagnostics of diabetes mellitus
  • Diagnostics of anemia
  • Oncology
  • Diagnostics and management of osteoporosis therapy
  • Blood biochemistry
  • Thyroid diagnostics
  • Hospital profiles
  • Healthy you – healthy country
  • Gynecology, reproduction
  • Healthy child: for children from 0 to 14 years
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
  • Weight problems
  • VIP examinations
  • Respiratory diseases
  • Allergies
  • Determination of trace element reserves in the body
  • Beauty
  • Vitamins
  • Diets
  • Pre-diet lab tests
  • Sports profiles
  • Hormonal tests for men
  • Depression
  • Medical lab tests

• • Biochemical studies
    • Glucose and metabolites of carbohydrate metabolism
    • Proteins and amino acids
    • Bile pigments and acids
    • Lipids
    • Enzymes
    • Markers of kidney function
    • Inorganic substances/electrolytes:
    • Vitamins
    • Proteins involved in iron metabolism
    • Cardiospecific proteins
    • Markers of inflammation

    9 0017 Markers of bone metabolism and osteoporosis

    • Determination of drugs and psychoactive substances
    • Biogenic amines
    • Specific proteins
  • Hormonal studies
    • Laboratory evaluation of the pituitary-adrenal system
    • Laboratory assessment of pituitary somatotropic function
    • Laboratory assessment of thyroid function
    • Assessment of parathyroid function
    • Pituitary gonadotropic hormones and prolactin
    • Estrogens and progestins

    9001 7 Assessment of androgenic function

    • Non-steroidal regulatory factors of the sex glands
    • Pregnancy monitoring, biochemical markers of fetal status
    • Laboratory evaluation of pancreatic endocrine function and diagnosis of diabetes
    • Biogenic amines
    • Laboratory assessment of the state of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system
    • Factors involved in the regulation of appetite and fat metabolism
    • Laboratory assessment of the endocrine function of the gastrointestinal tract
    • Laboratory assessment hormonal regulation of erythropoiesis
    • Laboratory evaluation of pineal gland function
  • Healthy lifestyle tests
  • Hematological tests
    • Clinical blood test
    • Immunohematological studies
    • Coagulological studies (coagulogram)
  • Immunological studies
    • Comprehensive immunological studies
    • Lymphocytes, subpopulations
    • Evaluation of phagocytosis
    • Immunoglobulins
    • Complement components
    • Regulators and mediators of immunity
    • Interferon status, evaluation sensitivity to immunotherapeutic drugs:
  • Allergological tests
    • IgE – allergen-specific (allergy tests), mixtures, panels, total IgE.
    • IgG, allergen-specific
    • ImmunoCAP technology
    • AlcorBio technology
    • ALEX technology
  • Autoimmune disease markers
    • System
    • Rheumatoid arthritis, joint disease
    • Antiphospholipid syndrome
    • Vasculitis and kidney disease
    • Autoimmune lesions of the gastrointestinal tract. Celiac disease
    • Autoimmune liver diseases
    • Neurological autoimmune diseases
    • Autoimmune endocrinopathies
    • Autoimmune skin diseases
    • Lung and heart diseases
    • Immu thrombocytopenia
  • Tumor markers
  • COVID-19
  • Trace elements
    • Aluminum
    • Barium
    • Beryllium
    • Boron
    • Vanadium
    • Bismuth
    • Tungsten
    • Gallium
    • Germanium
    • Iron
    • Gold
    • Iodine

    9 0017 Cadmium

    • Potassium
    • Calcium
    • Cobalt
    • Silicon
    • Lanthanum
    • Lithium
    • Magnesium
    • Manganese
    • Copper
    • Molybdenum
    • Arsenic
    • Sodium
    • Nickel
    • Tin
    • Platinum
    • Mercury
    • Rubidium
    • Lead
    • Selenium
    • Silver
    • Strontium
    • Antimony
    • Thallium
    • Phosphorus 900 06
    • Chromium
    • Zinc
    • Zirconium
  • Examination of the structure of the kidney stone
  • Urinalysis
    • Clinical analysis of urine
    • Urinalysis
  • Fecal examination
    • Clinical fecal analysis
    • Fecal chemistry
  • Sperm examination
    • Light-optical examination of spermatozoa
    • Electron microscopic examination of sperm
    • Antisperm antibodies
  • Diagnosis of infectious diseases
    • Viral infections
    • Bacterial infections
    • Fungal infections
    • Parasitic infections
    • Streptococcal infections
  • Cytology
  • Histological studies
  • Oncogenetic studies
  • Cytogenetic studies
  • Non-invasive prenatal tests
  • Genetic predispositions
    • Lifestyle and genetic factors
    • Reproductive health 9 0006
    • Immunogenetics
    • Rh factor
    • Blood coagulation system
    • Cardiac and vascular diseases
    • Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
    • Diseases of the central nervous system
    • Oncological diseases
    • Metabolic disorders
    • Description of the results of genetic studies by a geneticist
    • Pharmacogenetics
    • Xenobiotics and carcinogens detoxification system
    • Fetal sex determination
    • Fetal Rh factor
  • Hereditary diseases
  • Hereditary metabolic diseases substances
    • Hereditary metabolic diseases
    • Additional studies (after screening and consultation with a specialist)
  • Determination of biological relationship: paternity and motherhood
    • Determination of biological relationship in the family: paternity and motherhood
  • Water and soil quality study
    • Water quality study
    • Soil quality study
  • Diagnosis of liver pathology without biopsy : FibroMax, FibroTest, SteatoScreen
    • Calculated tests based on SteatoScreen results without blood sampling
  • Dysbiotic conditions of the intestine and urogenital tract
    • General assessment of the natural microflora of the body
    • Study of the microbiocenosis of the urogenital tract
    • Femoflor: profiles of studies of dysbiotic conditions of the urogenital tract in women

    900 17 Specific assessment of the natural microflora of the body

  • English

• • Blood
  • Urine
  • Cal
  • Semen
  • Gastropanel

• • Endoscopy 900 06
  • Functional diagnostics
  • Ultrasound

• • Tests we don’t do
  • New tests
  • Obtaining results
  • Additional research orders
  • Medical consultant service
  • Professional position
    • Venous blood for analysis
    • Tumor markers. View of a practical oncologist. Laboratory justifications.
    • Testosterone: diagnostic threshold, method-dependent reference values ​​
    • Laboratory assessment of lipid metabolism parameters in INVITRO
    • Lipid profile: fasting or not fasting

9001 5
The cost of analyzes is indicated without taking biomaterial

Description

Method of determination
Homogeneous enzymatic colorimetric.

Test material
Blood serum

Home visit available

Online check-in

Synonyms : High density lipoproteins; HDL; HDL; HDL cholesterol; alpha cholesterol; α-cholesterol. High density lipoprotein cholesterol; high density lipoprotein; Alpha-Lipoprotein Cholesterol; α-lipoprotein cholesterol; α-Lp cholesterol; HDL; HDL-C; HDL Cholesterol.

Brief description of the analyte Cholesterol-HDL

Blood lipoproteins transport lipids, including cholesterol, from one cell population to another. Unlike other lipoproteins, high-density lipoproteins (HDL) carry cholesterol from the cells of peripheral organs (including heart vessels, brain arteries, etc.) to the liver, where cholesterol is converted into bile acids and excreted from the body. In women, on average, HDL values ​​are higher than in men.

The level of HDL cholesterol in combination with data on existing diseases, age, gender, blood pressure, the fact of smoking, is taken into account when assessing the individual risk of developing severe complications of cardiovascular diseases (myocardial infarction or stroke) in the modified SCORE (Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation) scale ).

High HDL cholesterol is considered to be a beneficial anti-atherogenic factor that reduces cardiovascular risk. Low HDL cholesterol reflects the risk of premature atherosclerosis, a high risk of cardiovascular disease, and is often associated with hypertriglyceridemia in metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

For more information on the laboratory assessment of lipid metabolism parameters, please click here.

What is the purpose of determining the level of total HDL cholesterol in blood serum

The determination of HDL cholesterol in blood serum is used in combination with other lipid profile tests to assess cardiorisk (reflects the content of “good cholesterol”). Increased levels are associated with a lower risk of atherosclerosis.

What can affect the HDL cholesterol test result

A change in diet can reduce blood cholesterol levels by 10-15%, although sensitivity to changes in dietary cholesterol levels and the effect of diet on cholesterol levels can be expressed differently in different people. To reduce the risk of complications of cardiovascular diseases, it is recommended to maintain the concentration of total cholesterol in the blood below 5.0 mmol / l. The therapeutic goal of lipid-lowering therapy is to lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Disorders of cholesterol metabolism, accompanied by an increase in its content in the blood, are characteristic of hypothyroidism. Secondary hypercholesterolemia is also observed in hepatic cholestasis, nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal failure, gout, diabetes and other diseases. Before starting therapy with lipid-lowering drugs, diseases that lead to an increase in cholesterol levels should be excluded.

Cholesterol level reflects the activity of synthesis processes in the liver. In severe liver damage, there is a significant decrease in the concentration of cholesterol in the blood. Acute tissue injury also causes a marked drop in total and LDL cholesterol levels. It begins within the first day after a heart attack, surgery or septicemia and can reach a 40% reduction from baseline. Lipid levels do not return to normal for up to three months. Therefore, a lipid study to assess the risk of atherosclerosis should not be performed within three months after acute conditions.

More details about the laboratory assessment of lipid metabolism parameters can be found here.

Preparation

Rules for preparing for a blood test to determine the level of HDL-Cholesterol

Strictly on an empty stomach, after an overnight fasting period of 8 to 14 hours. On the eve of the study, it is necessary to exclude increased psycho-emotional and physical activity (sports training), alcohol intake.

Indications for prescription

In what cases is a blood test to determine the level of HDL-Cholesterol

• Assessment of the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and their complications according to the modified SCORE scale.
• Atherosclerosis risk assessment.
• Detection of dyslipidemias.

Interpretation of results

Interpretation of test results contains information for the attending physician and is not a diagnosis. The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. An accurate diagnosis is made by the doctor, using both the results of this examination and the necessary information from other sources: history, results of other examinations, etc.

Interpretation of the results of determining the level of Cholesterol-HDL in blood serum

Units of measurement : mmol / l.

Alternate units : mg/dl.

Unit conversion : mg/dL x 0.026 ==> mmol/L.

Adults. When assessing cardiac risk, an HDL cholesterol level greater than 1.0 mmol/l in men and greater than 1.2 mmol/l in women indicates low risk. Low HDL cholesterol levels are associated with higher cardiovascular risk.

Reference values ​​ (population dispersion) HDL cholesterol concentrations for children and adolescents

Age	HDL cholesterol level, mmol/l
	Men	Women	0.93 – 1.89
10 – 15 years	0, 96 – 1.91	0.96 – 1.81
15 – 18 years old	0.78 – 1.63	0.91 – 1.91

Data on the population dispersion of HDL-cholesterol values ​​in adults –

see here .

Increased level

1. Primary hereditary hypercholesterolemia (hyperlipoproteinemia types IA and IIB types).
2. Obesity.
3. Obstructive jaundice.
4. Nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal failure.
5. Diabetes mellitus.
6. Hypothyroidism.
7. Cushing’s syndrome.
8. Cholesterol-rich diet.
9. Pregnancy.
10. Anorexia nervosa.
11. Taking medications (beta-blockers, diuretics, progestins, oral contraceptives, glucocorticoids, androgens).

Level reduction

1. Atherosclerosis.
2. Familial hypo-alpha-lipoproteinemia (Tangier’s disease).
3. Cholestasis, chronic liver disease.
4. Nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal failure.
5. Diabetes mellitus.
6. Obesity.
7. Smoking.
8. Taking medications: beta-blockers, danazol, diuretics, progestins, androgens.
9. Diet rich in carbohydrates or polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Questions

and answers

{{{this.PREVIEW_TEXT}}}

Did the answer help you?

{{/each}}

In this section you can find out how much it costs to complete this study in your city, read the description of the test and the table for interpreting the results. When choosing where to take the HDL-Cholesterol (High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol) test in Moscow and other cities of Russia, do not forget that the price of the analysis, the cost of the procedure for taking biomaterial, methods and terms for performing studies in regional medical offices may differ.

Cardio Endurance Monitoring – Apple Support (UK)

Apple Watch can estimate your cardio endurance level and send you notifications when it’s low.

About Cardio Endurance

Cardio Endurance is a measurement of VO ₂ max, which is the maximum amount of oxygen your body can take in during exercise. Your cardio endurance level is a reliable indicator of your overall fitness and long-term health. Apple Watch measures cardio endurance by measuring how hard your heart is working while walking, running, or hiking through the Workout app.

If your cardio endurance level is low for your age and gender, you will receive a notification. If your cardio endurance level continues to be low, you will receive additional notifications.

Most people can improve their _{MIC by increasing the intensity and frequency of cardio exercise. Certain medical conditions or medications that limit your heart rate can cause your MIC to be too high.}

View Cardio Endurance Data

1. Open the Health app on iPhone and tap Browse.
2. Tap Heart, then select Cardio Endurance.
3. Press D, W, or Y to view the daily, weekly, or yearly average.
4. Click Show All Cardio Endurance Levels.
5. Tap a cardio endurance level to compare your results with other levels based on your age and gender.

You can also click the Show Info button in the upper right corner to view average cardio endurance levels for women and men of all ages or all categories.

How Apple Watch measures your cardio endurance

Apple Watch Series 3 or later can record your VO score ₂ max using your heart rate and motion sensors while walking, running, or hiking through the app “Training”. Apple Watch supports an MIC range of 14 to 65 ml/kg/min, validated for users aged 20 and over.

Apple Watch also considers the following factors when assessing cardio endurance:

• age;
• floor;
• weight;
• height;
• medicines that can affect the heart rate.

Initial assessment may require you to wear your Apple Watch for at least 24 hours, and then complete a few walks, runs, or hikes* and passive measurements with your Apple Watch.

If the Health app detects that you can update your previous cardio endurance scores, you will have the option to update your data.