HDL Cholesterol Cost

Cholesterol is an essential element that is instrumental for the body. It synthesizes vitamins and helps in digestive processes. Cholesterol is of 3 types - low-density lipoproteins (LDL), high-density lipoproteins (HDL), very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Of which, high-density lipoprotein (HDL cholesterol, HDL-C) is considered to be beneficial because it removes excess cholesterol from tissues and carries it to the liver for disposal. Hence, HDL cholesterol is often termed “good” cholesterol. It helps in metabolizing excess fat deposits in the body.

High cholesterol levels are dangerous. Anyone who has a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits and no physical activity, can have high cholesterol. High cholesterol can also run in the family and hence become inherited in the generations. Excess deposits of cholesterol can create blockages in the arteries that carry blood to the heart and remaining parts of the body. Obstructed blood flow can lead to chest pain and heart attacks. This can lead to further health complications like stroke, hypertension and other heart problems.

If you have a family history of heart diseases or diabetes, or have had a heart attack in the past, then you need to undergo cholesterol testing regularly. Further, men and women over 40 years of age also should get themselves tested for high cholesterol from time-to-time. People who are into smoking and drinking are also on the likelier side of having high levels of cholesterol in their body. LDL cholesterol test, VLDL cholesterol test and triglycerides test, may be ordered in conjunction with HDL cholesterol test.

There are certain medications that need to be discontinued in the period before undergoing cholesterol test. The doctor may also inform you about the fasting period if any before testing your cholesterol. A cholesterol test is done through a simple blood draw. It is a simple, plain and painless blood test wherein a small sample of blood is taken out and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Normal HDL levels in women are more than 50mg/dl, whereas in men, the normal range is above 40 mg/dl. Normal levels of cholesterol can be maintained with the help of proper diet, adequate exercising and proper sleep patterns. This will keep your weight in check and automatically regulate your cholesterol levels.