A high-density lipoprotein (HDL) test calculates your blood's amount of "good" cholesterol. The waxy substance known as cholesterol is present in every cell in the body. It performs various tasks, including assisting in cell growth in your body. Lipoproteins, a class of proteins, carry cholesterol in circulation.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or bad cholesterol, and HDL, or good cholesterol, are the two forms of cholesterol in the body. Since it transports LDL, triglycerides, and toxic fats back to your liver for processing, HDL is referred to as the "good cholesterol." LDL is broken down by the liver when HDL reaches the liver, which then excretes it from your body as bile.
The body is made up mostly of LDL cholesterol. LDL is considered bad cholesterol since it can induce artery plaque development when levels are high in the body. A stroke or heart disease may occur from this. A quick test can be used by your doctor to determine your cholesterol levels.
Why is the HDL test done?
An HDL-C test is another name for an HDL test. It determines cholesterol levels. A complete cholesterol test, lipid profile, or lipid panel are the names given to this comprehensive panel of testing. These tests are frequently used by doctors to estimate the risk of getting heart disease.
The HDL test particularly assesses your blood's HDL concentration. If your cholesterol screening test yields high findings, a follow-up HDL test may also be prescribed.
An HDL test may be requested by your doctor as a part of a routine examination.
The test may be routinely administered by doctors for persons who have a high risk of developing heart disease, and other problems like:
The test could also be prescribed by your doctor to check on the efficacy of your medications or to see whether lifestyle modifications like diet, exercise, or quitting smoking are beneficial in decreasing your cholesterol.
What happens during the HDL test?
During the HDL test, a medical professional will use a tiny needle to take a blood sample from your veins. The area where the blood sample is obtained will hurt a little when the needle is inserted. But it will not cause major discomfort; the pain will also go away soon.
What are the risks associated with HDL test?
There are no risks associated with the test.
How to prepare for the HDL test?
You will receive comprehensive instructions from your doctor on how to be ready for the test. This can involve abstaining from taking specific drugs
In case you are not well or ill, you shouldn't undergo an HDL test. Cholesterol levels are temporarily lower during acute illness, immediately following a heart attack, and during stressful events like surgery or an accident. After any sickness, it is advised that you wait at least six weeks before having your cholesterol checked. During pregnancy, HDL cholesterol in women can also vary. Before getting your HDL levels checked after delivering a baby, you should wait at least six weeks.
Understanding Results
More than 60 mg/dL of HDL cholesterol is considered to be optimal. A higher risk of heart disease is indicated by HDL values below 50 mg/dL for women and 40 mg/dL for males.
High cholesterol might exist without any symptoms. Regular cholesterol testing is important, especially if you have any heart disease risk factors.
**Note- HDL Test costs in India at different locations may vary
Book a HDL Test at Medicover Hospitals. Call us at 040-68334455