A lipid profile test is performed to check the status of various lipid components in our body. Lipid is an essential component of the cell wall and is also involved in many biochemical processes of the human body. Though cholesterol is a type of lipid essentially required by the human cells for its functioning, there are types of cholesterol which can be harmful for human health.
Hence, cholesterol is categorized as the good cholesterol and bad cholesterol for better understanding. Both the good and the bad cholesterol should be within a certain range to promote normal functioning of the human cells.
What is good cholesterol ?
Good cholesterol is that cholesterol which is good for the human body and which also helps in removing the bad cholesterol from the body. Good cholesterol is the High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
What is bad cholesterol ?
The cholesterol which can cause accumulation of plaque in your blood vessels affecting the flow of blood which in turn can lead to serious conditions like stroke and heart attack. This bad cholesterol is the Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Increase in LDL in the human blood is manifested in the form of atherosclerotic plaques in the blood vessels which block the blood flow posing a threat to the heart health.
Apart from good and bad cholesterol there are the Triglycerides, the type of lipids in the blood which are stored in the fat cells in the form of energy, and hence high triglycerides are usually seen in individuals who are overweight, consume alcohol regularly and follow a sedentary lifestyle.
What all tests are performed as a part of lipid profile test ?
A Lipid Profile Test consists of the below mentioned tests.
- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL)
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL)
- Total Cholesterol
- Triglycerides
- Cholesterol Ratio (TC/HDL)
When is a lipid profile test advised ?
A lipid profile test is advised in any individual above 40 years or age or younger if it is required. Below mentioned are the few scenarios when a Lipid Profile Test is advised.
- An increased risk of heart disease
- Family history of cholesterol related diseases
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Chronic alcoholic consumption
- Consuming diet rich in fatty acids or fats
- Lack of physical activity and exercise
- Children who have cholesterol related diseases
Besides the above-mentioned scenarios, a Lipid Profile Test can also be advised in younger and healthy individuals as a routine check-up to evaluate and predict health conditions and as a preventive measure to detect and treat any conditions related to cholesterol.
How does one prepare for a lipid profile test ?
A Lipid Profile Test is performed in a pathology laboratory by a pathologist and you will be asked to strictly fast for 10-12 hours before the test so that nothing interferes with the values of your test. You will be asked to get your medications reviewed before the test, so that you can know which ones you can take and which ones to skip before the test.
What happens during a lipid profile test ?
Your blood sample for a Lipid Profile Test is withdrawn in a pathology laboratory by a pathologist or by a trained technician in a vial or a vacutainer, mostly from your inner arm. Once the blood is collected under aseptic conditions, a band-aid will be placed at the vein puncture site and you will be asked to collect your reports from the laboratory as per the policy.
What are the normal values of LDL, HDL, Total cholesterol, Triglycerides and Cholesterol ratio ?
As Per National Heart, Lung and Blood institute(USA)
1) (LDL) Low-Density Lipoprotein
Less than 100mg/dL :Optimal
100-129mg/dL: Near optimal/above optimal
130-159 mg/dL: Borderline high
160-189 mg/dL: High
190 mg/dL and above: Very High
2) (HDL) High-Denisty Lipoprotein
Less than 40 mg/dL: A major risk factor for heart disease
40—59 mg/dL:The higher, the better
60 mg/dL and higher :Considered protective against heart disease
3) (TC) Total Cholesterol: Category
Less than 200mg/dL : Desirable
200-239 mg/dL :Borderline high
240mg/dL : High Above
4) Triglycerides
To be <150mg/dL
5) Cholesterol Ratio: Total Cholesterol/ HDL
3.5:1 (according to American Heart Association)
How can one keep the cholesterol in check ?
One should consume a diet rich in fibers and less in saturated fats. Some amount of physical activity or exercise is important to burn the calories or excess fat and to keep one’s heart healthy. If the cholesterol values do not lower with diet and exercise it is advised to seek medical help to start medications to reduce or lower the cholesterol.
What are the risks and complications of a lipid profile test ?
Lipid Profile Test is a simple blood investigation hence the risks and complications are minimal. But one can feel discomfort while needle insertion to draw blood, a blood clot at the site of vein puncture or infection during or after the blood test might occur.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
