The LDL test is one of the most important tests to evaluate the level of blood cholesterol, which is known as bad cholesterol.... Because an increase in the level of LDL in a blood test can lead to the accumulation of fat in the walls of the arteries and as a result, an increase in the risk of cardiovascular diseases.... Therefore, it is necessary to carry out this assessment regarding the blood test to check LDL.... It reduces its possible risks such as chest pain, nausea, fatigue... Excessive and shortness of breath, which is a sign of increased blood lipids, help does..

If you have recently had your blood lipids tested and found that your LDL index is high, join us in this article from GCORP LLC Health Magazine to find out what LDL is and what its normal level is.

What is LDL in a blood test?

To better understand the LDL test, you must first know what LDL is....LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein and is actually a type of cholesterol that exists in the blood....Cholesterol is made in the liver and is necessary for some body functions such as the production of hormones....This substance needs the help of protein to move in the blood...

LDL in a blood test shows the level of blood cholesterol, which is known as bad cholesterol.. because its high amounts can be deposited in the walls of blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.... A cardiologist may perform an LDL test as part of a routine test to determine your risk of developing heart disease and determine the need for any treatment.

Learn more: What is hdl in a blood test?

When should the ldl test be done?

The American Heart Association recommends that after the age of 20, if you don't have heart problems, it's best to get your cholesterol levels checked every four to six years. High cholesterol usually doesn't cause visible symptoms in the early stages, so you may not know about it without testing.

If you have the following conditions or diseases, you should have LDL testing done regularly under the supervision of a specialist doctor:

• Family history of heart disease
• Smoking
• Overweight (BMI range 30 or more)
• Low levels of HDL (good cholesterol)
• High blood pressure or under blood pressure treatment
• Diabetes

Learn more: pdw in blood test

A cardiologist regularly orders an LDL test for people who are already being treated for high cholesterol.. This test is done to determine whether lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, or medications are successfully lowering bad cholesterol.. Children usually do not need an LDL test..

Learn more: esr in blood test

What is the normal value of ldl in a blood test?

The normal level of LDL in a blood test may be different based on the age, gender, general condition of the person and other influencing factors... In the table below, you will get to know the normal level of LDL in different age groups and conditions:

Interpretation of ldl test

The amount of LDL in a blood test is expressed in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl).... Specialists interpret the level of LDL in the blood test of people over 18 years old as follows:

• Less than 100 mg/dL: ideal range
Between 100 and 129 mg/dL: optimal Between 130 and 159 mg/dL: moderate Between 160 and 189 mg/dL: high cholesterol
• More than 190 mg/dL: Very high cholesterol

Learn more: Cholesterol in blood test

LDL test conditions

For this test, avoid eating or drinking liquids for about 10 to 12 hours before. Because food and drink can temporarily change blood cholesterol levels... however, it is okay to drink water.... for proper evaluation, it is better not to change your usual diet.... in fact, doctors recommend that you consume the same usual foods in a smaller volume.... Also, do not drink alcohol 72 hours before the LDL test and do not do heavy exercise 24 hours before that.

Be sure to tell your doctor or lab technician if you are taking over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, or herbal supplements. Some medications, such as birth control pills, can affect your LDL levels, and your doctor may ask you to stop taking them or change your dose before the test.

Learn more: What is TG in a blood test?

What happens during the ldl test?

To test for LDL, you only need a simple blood sample.. Before the blood is taken, the doctor will wipe the elbow or the back of the hand with disinfectant.. Then they will tie an elastic band around the arm..

You may feel mild to moderate pain that feels like itchiness or burning.... You can usually reduce the pain by relaxing your arm during the blood draw... The doctor will untie the elastic band during the blood draw.... When the blood is drawn, an adhesive tape will be placed over the site.... You will need to apply pressure to the wound for a few minutes to prevent bleeding and bruising.. Your blood will be sent to a medical laboratory to test for LDL levels.

What is the cause of high LDL in blood test?

A high level of LDL in a blood test indicates the possibility of fat deposition in the veins and arteries.. The accumulation of fat in the walls of the arteries causes narrowing of the blood vessels, which leads to disruption of blood flow..

In most cases, the result of carrying this excess pressure is heart trouble.... If the LDL blood level does not return to normal as soon as possible, entire vessels become blocked or produce chemicals that cause blood to clot, thereby increasing the risk of heart and stroke attacks..

The factors affecting the increase of ldl in the blood test are:

• Unhealthy diet containing high-fat and cholesterol-rich foods
• Lack of physical activity
• Extra weight
• familial hypercholesterolemia
• Smoking
• Underlying diseases such as diabetes, liver and kidney problems
• Some medicines

Learn more: cbc diff test

Why is LDL testing necessary?

Increased ldl levels usually do not cause symptoms in the early stages, so it is necessary to check it regularly, especially in people prone to bad cholesterol...

• Coronary heart disease
• Atherosclerosis
Angina or chest pain
• Heart attack
• stroke
• Carotid artery disease
• Peripheral arterial disease

Learn more: RDW in blood test

What is the sign of low LDL in blood test?

A low level of LDL in a blood test is a good sign and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease... It also indicates a balanced diet, adequate physical activity and good general condition... However, in some rare cases, very low LDL can indicate problems such as hormonal disorders or malnutrition.

Who should not have an LDL test?

Children under 2 years old are too young to have this test done and do not need an LDL test, unless they were genetically born with high cholesterol.... People who have had an acute illness and stressful situation such as surgery or a heart attack should wait about 6 weeks before getting an LDL test... Also because acute illness and stress can lead to a temporary decrease in LDL in the blood.. LDL test 6 weeks after giving birth; Because pregnancy causes a temporary increase in the level of LDL cholesterol.

Tests related to ldl test

Usually, to interpret the LDL test, the doctor needs the results of some tests related to this index, which we introduce in the table below:

How to reduce LDL cholesterol?

The most effective way to reduce blood LDL levels is to make changes in lifestyle and diet.. Consumption of high-fat, processed foods and lack of physical activity are considered to be the most important factors for increasing LDL in blood tests. For this reason, following a diet and having a healthy lifestyle can greatly help in reducing blood LDL cholesterol...

If your blood LDL level is high in the test, you should take the following points seriously:

• following a basic diet under the supervision of a nutritionist
• Performing light sports suitable for physical conditions
• Seafood consumption
• Using sesame and olive oil instead of saturated oils
• Decreasing consumption of foods containing trans fats such as fast food
• Managing daily stress and anxiety levels
• Consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables
• Do not smoke and do not drink alcohol

Guide to see a doctor

LDL testing is one of the important ways to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease.. High levels of LDL can lead to the formation of fatty plaques in the walls of the arteries and their blockage.. This condition increases the risk of heart attack and other related problems. you are You can visit a cardiologist online through the GCORP LLC website.... Also, GCORP LLC allows you to make an appointment with a cardiologist of your choice through an online appointment system.

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