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Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance that is a natural part of the human body and is found in many of the foods we eat.
We derive some cholesterol from our diets, but the majority of our cholesterol is produced by the liver. While this fatty substance is necessary for vital biological processes, having too much cholesterol in our blood can be dangerous.
However, cholesterol is much-needed to help build cells, Vitamin D, hormones (including testosterone and estrogen), and fat-dissolving bile acids. In this article, we discuss health risks associated with high cholesterol levels, cholesterol testing, its benefits, types of tests, and more. Let’s dive in!
Elevated cholesterol levels can pose a significant health risk. High cholesterol can increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis, a condition in which arteries become clogged and hardened due to an accumulation of fatty deposits called plaque. This can lead to the blockage of blood vessels, resulting in a stroke, heart attack, or another cardiovascular event. High cholesterol can also increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, as well as kidney and liver damage. Additionally, having high cholesterol can put a person at risk for gallstones and pancreatitis. In nutshell, below are the risks associated with elevated cholesterol levels:
Symptoms of complications arising from high cholesterol could include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Moreover, having elevated cholesterol levels can increase a person’s risk of developing other conditions such as obesity, some types of cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. That’s why it is important to get your cholesterol levels checked regularly and take preventive measures to maintain a healthy cholesterol level.
Cholesterol tests are needed to determine if a person’s cholesterol levels are too high, as high cholesterol is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease and stroke. By measuring cholesterol levels, providers can identify those at risk and take steps to prevent or treat the condition. Typically, cholesterol tests are part of a routine physical and are used to determine one’s risk for heart disease and stroke.
There are a few types of cholesterol tests available for people to use to measure their levels, such as:
The Lipoprotein Profile, also known as the lipid panel test, is a blood test used to measure lipoproteins in the blood. Lipoproteins are molecules made of fat and protein that are responsible for carrying cholesterol throughout the body. The Lipoprotein Profile test measures triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol. The test results can help providers evaluate the risk of developing coronary artery disease, stroke, and other conditions. In addition, this test can also be used to monitor cholesterol levels in people who are currently receiving treatment. Side effects of the lipoprotein profile test may include bruising or bleeding at the site of the blood draw. However, these side effects are usually minor and resolved quickly.
The Fasting Lipid Profile is a blood test that measures cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipoproteins in the blood while a person is fasting. The purpose of the test is to identify differences between the cholesterol levels during fasting vs. after food. The fasting lipid profile is used to evaluate levels of cholesterol and lipoproteins in the blood, and to monitor cholesterol levels in people already being treated for the condition. The test results can help providers assess a person’s risk of developing coronary artery disease and stroke. Additionally, the Fasting Lipid Profile can also be used to monitor the effects of lifestyle changes, medications, and dietary changes on cholesterol levels.
Total cholesterol is a measure of the total amount of cholesterol, both “good” HDL cholesterol and “bad” LDL cholesterol, in the blood. The Total Cholesterol test is used to monitor and evaluate a person’s risk for coronary artery disease and stroke. The test is simple and involves drawing a sample of the person’s blood. The test results can help providers assess the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and aid in deciding whether or not to begin cholesterol-lowering treatments.
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. The triglycerides test measures the levels of triglycerides in the blood. The test result can help providers assess one’s risk of developing coronary artery disease, stroke, and other conditions associated with elevated triglyceride levels. The triglycerides test is simple and involves drawing a sample of the person’s blood. The test results can help providers assess the risk of developing certain diseases and aids in deciding whether or not to begin treatments that can lower triglyceride levels.
HDL cholesterol, also known as “good” cholesterol, carries cholesterol from other parts of the body back to the liver, where it is excreted from the body. The HDL Cholesterol test measures the levels of HDL cholesterol in the blood. The test results can help providers assess one’s risk of developing coronary artery disease and evaluate their risk of stroke. This test is also simple and involves drawing a sample of the person’s blood.
Experts suggest that everyone should have their first screening test by age 35 for men, and age 45 for women. Some guidelines even recommend starting at age 20. However, it is important to talk to your provider or healthcare provider to establish the best screening frequency and test type for you.
Once you have your cholesterol levels tested, your provider or healthcare provider will be able to provide you with a better understanding of your test results and let you know what lifestyle changes you may need to make to reduce your risk for complications associated with elevated cholesterol levels.
Your provider or healthcare provider may also suggest changes to your diet and/or medications to lower your cholesterol levels. It is important to follow up with your provider or healthcare provider to evaluate your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Cholesterol tests are a valuable way to measure your risk for coronary heart disease and stroke. Knowing your cholesterol levels can help you identify risk factors and make informed decisions about your health that can help you prevent or manage dangerous heart conditions. Remember, elevated cholesterol levels seldom have any symptoms, so most people don’t know they have high cholesterol until they get tested. This is why it is suggested that people get their levels checked.
At Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center, our highly skilled team of experts are here to provide you with the necessary guidance to achieve a healthier lifestyle and reduce your risk of developing dangerous heart conditions. Contact us today for further information.
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