Cholesterol - LDL
Understanding Cholesterol - LDL
What is Cholesterol - LDL?
A Cholesterol - LDL test is a blood test that measures the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the body. This test is done to evaluate your cardiovascular health, especially when you have risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It is also done as part of a routine health checkup or a lipid profile.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. It is essential for the production of hormones and vitamin D and for digesting food. There are generally two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoproteins (LDL) or the "bad" cholesterol and high-density lipoproteins (HDL) or the “good” cholesterol. Although referred to as bad, LDL cholesterol is not essentially unhealthy. Your body needs it in an optimum amount for nerve protection, cell production, and hormone synthesis. However, excessive amounts may clog or block the blood vessels (plaque formation) and increase the risk of heart conditions, such as heart attack, stroke, and angina.
A Cholesterol - LDL test helps determine LDL levels in the blood. High LDL cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia) generally show no symptoms in the early stages but may eventually lead to several cardiovascular complications. Whereas, low LDL cholesterol levels (hypocholesterolemia) are rare and are caused generally due to underlying health conditions like hyperthyroidism, liver disease, or malnutrition. This test does not require any special preparations. Usually, you do not have to stop your medications unless specifically advised by your doctor.
Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between different labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them evaluate your medical condition; make recommendations for diet, exercise, or medication; and formulate your overall treatment plan.
What is Cholesterol - LDL used for?
Cholesterol - LDL test is done:
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As part of routine health checkups to measure the level of LDL cholesterol in the blood.
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To determine an individual's risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
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For monitoring the LDL levels in individuals already diagnosed with high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease.
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To detect early elevated levels in individuals with a family history of high cholesterol levels or premature heart disease.
What does Cholesterol - LDL measure?
A Cholesterol - LDL test measures the concentration of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood. LDL cholesterol plays an important role in your body. It carries cholesterol from your liver to other parts of the body where it's needed for things like building cell walls and making hormones. However, it is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because when present in excess in your blood, it can stick to your blood vessel walls leading to the formation of plaque, making them narrow and less flexible. When this happens, it's harder for the blood to flow, which can lead to heart problems, like heart attacks and strokes. By measuring LDL cholesterol levels, your doctor can assess your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and can recommend appropriate preventive or treatment strategies.
Interpreting Cholesterol - LDL results
Interpretations
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If the LDL cholesterol level is less than 100 mg/dL - Optimal
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If it is between 100-129 mg/dL — Near optimal, above optimal
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Levels between 130-159 mg/dL — Borderline high
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Level between 160-189 mg/dL — High
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Greater than 189 mg/dL— Very high
Low levels of LDL cholesterol are not generally a concern and are not monitored.