How to get your cholesterol test results

It is necessary to know the different types of cholesterol for interpreting the blood test results of cholesterol. Cholesterol testing is confusing for anyone who does not know anything about HDL LDL cholesterol. Cholesterol readings quantitatively measure your heart’s condition. In this article, find out how to get your cholesterol test results.

Total cholesterol values: The facts

Lipid profile Cholesterol tests are used to determine the susceptibility of a patient in developing a cardiovascular disease. The lipid profile will help you in determining the quantity of fats present in one’s blood. Fats are segregated into four types: total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglyceride. You need to alter your food habits and lifestyle when the cholesterol numbers indicate high values. What is considered high cholesterol can be gauged from the laboratory readings measuring the “total cholesterol.” The desirable range of cholesterol should be less than 200 mg/dL. Borderline high cholesterol is indicated with a reading that is in the range of 200 mg/dL and 239 mg/dL. If your total cholesterol readings are beyond 240 mg/dL, it indicates that you are at a high risk of developing heart diseases.

HDL cholesterol values

HDL LDL cholesterol levels are provided by the cholesterol blood test. HDL is the abbreviated form of high density cholesterol or the “good cholesterol.” Its function is to transport the cholesterol from the liver with the purpose of processing and degradation. If your cholesterol reading indicates an HDL level of 60 mg/dL or more, it indicates that your heart is well-protected. High HDL value is beneficial for the heart. Normal HDL level has a value ranging between 40–60 mg/dL. Unhealthy HDL level is way below 40 mg/dL, indicating the vulnerability of the person to developing heart disease.

LDL cholesterol values

LDL is the abbreviated form of low density lipoprotein. It is most commonly referred to as “bad cholesterol.” This is a type of lipoprotein that moves from the liver to other tissues of the human body. LDL cholesterol is known to have caused many heart ailments, including heart attack, stroke, and coronary heart diseases. If the LDL level is less than 100 mg/dL, it is considered as “preferable” or “optimal.” LDL levels ranging between 100–129 mg/dL is deemed to be near or above optimal. LDL levels ranging between 130 – 159 mg/dL is considered as borderline high. LDL levels ranging between 160 – 189 mg/dL is considered as high, while a reading that exceeds 190 mg/dL is deemed as very high.