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Explain Cholesterol Testing

Cholesterol tests are a good indicator of your risk of developing certain diseases such as atherosclerosis and heart disease. They measure the amount of triglycerides and cholesterol that are in your blood. The tests are routinely used as a regular component of preventive medicine.

  1. Significance

    • Cholesterol is produced by your body and derived from the foods you eat. Excessive cholesterol levels lead to clogged arteries and heart disease.

    What to Expect

    • The test is a simple blood test performed either by your doctor or by a laboratory technician.

    How to Prepare for the Test

    • Abstain from eating or drinking anything for at least nine to 12 hours. Tell your doctor about any medications that you are taking since certain medications can affect your total cholesterol levels (such as birth control bills, steroids and diuretics).

    Results

    • When you receive your test results, you will see a total cholesterol level, low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad" cholesterol) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or "good" cholesterol) levels, and triglycerides.

      According to the American Heart Association, total cholesterol levels above 240 mg/dL indicate a high risk of developing coronary artery disease.

    LDL/HDL Results

    • LDL levels lower than 100 mg/dL are considered to be optimal, with anything above 160 mg/dL considered to be high.

      Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are better since this type of cholesterol helps protect you from heart disease. Normal levels for men should range between 40 and 50 mg/dL and women should have HDL levels ranging between 50 and 60 mg/dL.

    Triglyceride Results

    • According to the American Heart Association, normal triglyceride levels are less than 150 mg/dL; anything above 200 mg/dL is considered to be high.

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