HDL CHOLESTEROL TEST

HDL CHOLESTEROL TEST

An HDL or high-density lipoprotein test in the blood estimates the amount of good cholesterol. Cholesterol is a type of waxy matter that is detected in every cell of the body. It has many different purposes, such as helping form cells in your body. Cholesterol is conveyed through the blood flow connected to proteins known as lipoproteins.

TYPES

These are the two types of cholesterol in the body:

  • HDL or high-density lipoprotein

HDL is known as good cholesterol in the body that brings LDL or dangerous fats, and triglycerides back in the liver for processing. When HDL gets to your liver, it falls through LDL, turns it towards bile, and brings it out from your body.

  • LDL or low-density lipoprotein

LDL is known as bad cholesterol in the body because it contributes to high amounts of cholesterol in the arteries, which can cause a heart problem or stroke.

DIAGNOSIS

An HDL examination is also called an HDL-C test. It is one of the many tests that your doctor can use to evaluate the amount of cholesterol in the body. The whole set of this examination is called a complete cholesterol assessment, or a lipid profile. Doctors regularly order this test to identify the risk of getting a heart illness.

HDL tests precisely detect the amount of good cholesterol in your blood. And medical professionals may perform the test for individuals who are at risk for heart disease, including the following:

  • People with a family history of heart problems
  • People with diabetes
  • People with high blood pressure
  • Smokers
  • Have past heart problems
  • Men and women ages 45 and above

What are the risks of the HDL test?

An HDL test needs a simple, regular blood extraction and it doesn’t cause any severe problems. Here are the risks of getting blood samples:

  • Uncontrolled bleeding
  • Hematoma
  • Infection
  • Fainting

How will you prepare for the HDL test?

Your doctor will provide you with exact guidelines on how you can prepare for the examination. It may involve not taking any medications or fasting for 12 hours before the beginning of the test.

You must not have an HDL assessment if you’re sick or not feeling well. The range of cholesterol during that time is low because of severe illness. It’s advisable that you will wait for at least six weeks after you recover from illness. And if you’re pregnant, you must also wait at least six weeks after you give birth.

What to expect during the HDL test

An HDL test is fast and relatively pain-free. A medical professional will get a blood sample on your body using a needle. Other tests, including tests at home, need only a drop of blood using a tiny needle known as a lancet.

After they get a blood sample on you, they will send it to the laboratory for examination. If you feel dizzy after the test, you may need to rest and perhaps have a sugary drink or snack to make you feel well.

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