High cholesterol is a dangerous condition that can drastically increase the likely hood of a heart attack, heart disease or stroke and is very common in the west. It is there fore important to monitor cholesterol, though this can be difficult due to a small number of symptoms associated with the condition. Those symptoms that can be observed however, include angina (chest pain) caused by blockages and build ups of cholesterol in the arteries, as well as dark yellow patches around the eyes and whitening around the edges of the cornier. These symptoms are mild and not present in all cases making cholesterol testing crucial.

If you do not show any of these signs it is still highly plausible that your cholesterol levels are too high. Particular risk factors include age (high cholesterol is most common in women over 55 and men under 55), obesity, inactivity, high intake of carbohydrates (anything around or above 60% of daily calories), smoking, alcoholism or diabetes. Those who have previously suffered either a heart attack or stroke are also at more risk of high cholesterol. If you fall into any of these categories then regular cholesterol testing is advisable – in the US it is recommended that even healthy individuals get cholesterol testing at least every 5 years. These procedures are quick and easy and all that is required from you is a blood sample, which though unpleasant if you’re a bit squeamish, is certainly preferable to either a heart attack or stroke.

Once you or your doctor decides to subject you to cholesterol testing you will be presented with a full lipid profile containing your full results (named as such as cholesterol is made up of lipids and lipoproteins). This profile will include a detailed summary of your cholesterol level as well as the ratio of good cholesterol (HDL) to bad cholesterol (LDL). While LDL causes blockages and thickening of the arteries, HDL will serve to clear arterial plaque and help the body to dispose of LDL – therefore it is not simply the amount of cholesterol that clinicians are interested in, but also the type. Overall cholesterol levels should be around 200 for healthy patience, or anything below, and this number should be made up of 140 to 160 LDL and 40 to 60 HDL; though obviously the higher your HDL and the lower your LDL the better. From this information doctors can then determine how healthy you are and decide on the best way to proceed.

Depending on your current lifestyle and diet as well as the severity of your cholesterol levels, your doctor will advise either a course in a medication such as statins, or some simple changes to what you eat and other aspects of your health. This will involve things like eating less fatty foods and sugars, giving up smoking and drinking and getting regular exercise If ignored high cholesterol is potentially fatal which is why regular cholesterol testing is so important.

Mack LeMouse

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