HIGH CHOLESTEROL DIAGNOSIS

Diagnostic Measures for High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is determined by checking blood cholesterol levels. This is checking our lipoprotein profile, which means to look into the levels of Total Cholesterol, Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) as well as Trigliserides level. To undergo such test, the patient needs to fast for about 9 – 12 hours.

Actually, checking your Total Cholesterol and HDL does not require fasting, but it gives you enough info about your cholesterol levels. But if your Total Cholesterol level is 200 mg/dL or HDL lower than 40 mg/dL you should check your lipoprotein, because you need to know the level of LDL and trigliserides.

Let’s know the limits and see how it compares to your profile

Total Cholesterol Level	Total Cholesterol Category
Less than 200 mg/dL 200 - 239 mg/dL 240 mg/dL and more	Desirable Borderline high High
LDL Cholesterol Level	LDL Cholesterol Category
Less than 100 mg/dL 100 - 129 mg/dL 130 - 159 mg/dL 160 - 189 mg/dL 190 mg/dL and above	Optimal Near optimal/above optimal Borderline high High Very high
HDL Cholesterol Level	HDL Cholesterol Category
Less than 40 mg/dL 40 - 59 mg/dL 60 mg/dL and above --------------	A major risk factor for heart disease The higher the better Considered protective against heart disease

Notes: Cholesterol levels are measured in milligram (mg) per deciliter (dL) of blood.

Trigliserides is another fat form found in our blood. It is a factor that can also raise the risk for heart disease. That is why it is checked in association with cholesterol levels. Trigliserides levels should be taken with caution if the levels are borderline high (150 -199 mg/dL) or high (200 mg/dL or more). These levels indicate that you need treatment.

Factors that may trigger the increase of trigliserides in blood are as follows:

• Overweight
• Physical inactivity
• Cigarette smoking
• Excessive alcohol use
• Very high carbohydrate diet
• Certain diseases and drugs
• Genetic disorders