"Bad" cholesterol, or LDL, can build up in the arteries that carry blood to your heart and brain, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, are part of your cholesterol count. An overall count consists of LDL, triglycerides and HDL, or high-density lipoproteins. High LDL cholesterol causes plaque to form inside your arteries and narrows the passageways. Clots can block narrowed arteries, resulting in a heart attack or stroke. Find out the level of LDL cholesterol present in your blood to determine if you are at risk.
Step 1
Fast for nine to 12 hours prior to visiting your doctor for a cholesterol test. If you take medication, inform your doctor several days before the test. Your doctor may ask you to refrain from taking them for a few days to prepare for the test.
Step 2
During your cholesterol test the doctor will draw blood from a vein with a needle. The blood will be analyzed to determine the amount of the various types of cholesterol present.
Step 3
Request a copy of the test results. The levels of cholesterol are measured in mg/dl, which are milligrams/decaliters. Read the results to determine if the level of LDL cholesterol is stated. If results are given, skip to Step 6. If not, proceed to the next step.
Step 4
Find the triglyceride levels on the test results. If your triglyceride levels are below 400 mg/dl, proceed to the next step. If the levels are above 400 mg/dl, discuss the results with your doctor to determine if further testing is recommended.
Step 5
Divide the level of triglycerides by five. Add the result to the HDL levels shown on the test results. This is the level of LDL cholesterol present in your blood.
Step 6
Determine if the amount of LDL present is within an acceptable range. An LDL level of less than 100 mg/dl is preferred and considered normal; 100 to 129 mg/dl is near optimal; 130 to 159 mg/dl is considered borderline at-risk; 160 to 189 mg/dl is considered high risk. LDL levels above 189 mg/dl are considered very high risk. Discuss the results with your doctor if your LDL level is above normal.
Things You'll Need
- Cholesterol test results
References
- American Heart Association: Good vs. Bad Cholesterol
- Mayo Clinic: Cholesterol Test - Definition
- Mayo Clinic: Cholesterol Test - Why It's Done
- Mayo Clinic: Cholesterol Test - How You Prepare
- Auburn University School of Pharmacy: Overview of Cholesterol Components and Laboratory Evaluation
- Cholesterol Doctor: How to Calculate LDL-Cholesterol Levels
