High cholesterol often sneaks up on people without showing symptoms, only becoming apparent once serious health issues like heart attacks or strokes occur. Many individuals don't realize they have high cholesterol until they undergo routine medical check-ups, which is why regular blood tests are so crucial for your health.

One of the tests that can help identify high cholesterol early is called a lipid profile or fat panel. By detecting high cholesterol, doctors can help prevent complications like blocked arteries and heart disease. A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and, when needed, medication can significantly help in lowering cholesterol levels.

Types of Cholesterol Test

A complete cholesterol test measures four types of fats in the blood, including:

Total Cholesterol

Total cholesterol includes the sum of HDL (high-density lipoprotein, or "good cholesterol"), LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or "bad cholesterol"), and some triglycerides.

Total cholesterol test provides a snapshot of your overall cholesterol levels, which helps doctors assess your risk for heart disease. Your total cholesterol is calculated using the following formula:

HDL + LDL + 20% triglycerides

Here's how to interpret the results:

• A healthy cholesterol level is below 200 mg/dL
• A borderline level is between 200-239 mg/dL
• A high level is 240 mg/dL or more

HPL (High-Density Lipoprotein)

Often referred to as "good cholesterol", HDL helps transport excess cholesterol from your bloodstream to the liver, where it is removed from the body. This process helps keep your arteries clean and reduces the risk of fatty plaque buildup that can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

• Healthy HDL levels are typically 60 mg/dL or higher.
• For men, moderate HDL levels are 40-59 mg/dL, while for women, it is 50-59 mg/dL.
• Low HDL levels are below 40 mg/dL for men and below 50 mg/dL for women.

LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein)

LDL, or "bad cholesterol", can increase the risks of arterial obstruction and a condition called atherosclerosis, where the arteries narrow due to fat accumulation. In the long run, this can increase the risk of various cardiovascular diseases.

• Healthy LDL levels are below 100 mg/dL.
• The range of moderate LDL levels is 100-159 mg/dL.
• High LDL levels are 160 mg/dL or more.

VLDL (Very Low Density Lipoprotein)

VLDL carries triglycerides in the blood. High VLDL levels can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, leading to arterial blockage and cardiovascular disease.

Triglyceride

Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood that comes from the food you eat. Excess calories are converted into triglycerides and stored as fat in the body. High triglyceride levels are common in people who are overweight, smoke, lack physical activity, or have diabetes.

Doctors analyze all of these measurements to evaluate your cholesterol levels. It's crucial to have a healthcare provider interpret your lipid profile results to determine what steps you should take for your health.

If you’re looking to better understand your cholesterol levels and how to manage them, don’t hesitate to consult with a doctor. You can also use the Ai Care app for health consultations and more information about cholesterol tests, available on the App Store or Play Store.

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