Understanding Cholesterol Readings and What They Mean
For many people the first time they have a test to
get a cholesterol reading they may find themselves confused as to what
the number mean. There are several things we need to understand in order
to learn from one of these tests. Probably the most important part to
understand is how the reading is gotten and the differences between the
two cholesterol types.
The two types of cholesterol we are worried about are LDL (low density
lipoprotein) or bad cholesterol and HDL (high density lipoprotein) or
good cholesterol. The reason for this is simple; LDL cholesterol is a
significant cause of plaque formation in the arteries. This can lead to
blood clots and also clog and block arteries, increasing the risk of
heart disease from coronary artery disease. HDL cholesterol on the other
hand removes LDL cholesterol from the circulatory system and returns it
to the liver where it is then removed from the body.
The first reading to look at is the total figure from both types of
cholesterol added together. This will give an idea of the total amount
of cholesterol currently in your blood stream. The current guidelines
for total cholesterol breakdown like this. Less then 200 mg/dl, or LDL
levels at less than 130 mg/dl, is considered healthy with no long term
risk.
200-239 mg/dl, with LDL between 130-159 mg/dl, is borderline-high and
moderate steps need to be taken to lower it. This is the perfect time to
make some lifestyle changes that encompass diet and exercise. Usually by
doing this those who are in the borderline range can naturally lower
their levels without the use of prescription cholesterol medications.
A reading higher than 240 mg/dl, or LDL over 160 mg/dl, is high and
places anyone with this level at a high risk for coronary artery, heart
disease, and stroke. Anyone at these levels will need to make not only
diet and exercise a priority but will also probably be prescribed one of
the many cholesterol lowering medications by their doctor. The longer
their cholesterol stays high the greater the chance of irreversible
damage being done.
Another school of thought revolves around the ratio between the good
cholesterol and bad cholesterol. It is thought by some that this is just
as important as total numbers because of the way that HDL cholesterol
works in the body. The formula is simple, take the total reading and
divide it by the HDL reading. If the answer is 4 or more then your
cholesterol is too high and steps need to be taken to lower it.
Having your blood tested and getting a cholesterol reading is the only
way to determine if you have high cholesterol or not. If you are
concerned about you health and cholesterol levels then make an
appointment with your doctor and have it tested today.
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