Overview:
What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to measure the levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein). HDL is also known as good cholesterol because it carries LDL (bad cholesterol), triglycerides, and fats to the liver to remove it from the body.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To measure the level of good cholesterol in the body
- To determine the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases
- As a part of routine health check-up
- To help in devising a treatment plan and follow-up
- To monitor the efficacy of treatment.
- What is the difference between good and bad cholesterol?
HDL or good cholesterol moves the bad cholesterol from the body back to the liver while, LDL or bad cholesterol leads to the development and build-up and plaque on the wall of arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Which medicines might decrease my HDL levels?
- Testosterone containing drugs
- Anabolic steroids
- Beta-blocker
- Progestin
- What factors will decrease my HDL levels?
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Rich-carbohydrate meals
- Which medicines might decrease my HDL levels?
- Niacin
- Gemfibrozil
- Simvastatin
- Rosuvastatin
- How to prepare for the test?
No special preparations are required before this test. However, inform your doctor about your complete medical and drug history. Wear a half-sleeved or loose shirt to aid the collection of sample.
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness.
Males: 40-50 mg/dL
Females: 50-59 mg/dL
- Interpretation of test results:
Decreased HDL (high-density lipoproteins) levels in the blood increase the risk of developing heart diseases.