A standard lipid blood test usually measures the concentration of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides levels. The LDL-cholesterol level is typically estimated from these numbers using a well-established formula that has been more recently revised and improved by researchers at Johns Hopkins. So what are your target numbers? In general, women have higher levels of HDL cholesterol than men because the female sex hormone estrogen seems to boost this good cholesterol.
But, like so much else, everything changes at menopause. At this point, many women experience a change in their cholesterol levels — total and LDL cholesterol rise and HDL cholesterol falls. This is why women who had favorable cholesterol values during their childbearing years might end up with elevated cholesterol later in life.
Of course, genetics and lifestyle factors can play big roles, too. Medication: Depending on your overall cardiovascular disease risk, you might be treated with a cholesterol-lowering medication, such as a statin.
If you already have vascular disease or evidence of atherosclerosis, or if you are at high risk for cardiovascular disease, a statin for prevention is strongly recommended because this treats the plaque in the arteries, and lowers LDL cholesterol, Michos says. While nobody wants to have high cholesterol, there are plenty of ways to keep it in check. One of the best things you can do to protect and improve your health is to stay informed. If you have a new or existing heart problem, it's vital to see a doctor.
Our heart health checklist can help you determine when to seek care. Health Home Wellness and Prevention. Understanding the Highs and Lows of Cholesterol You know that too much is dangerous. Men are generally at a higher risk than women for higher cholesterol.
For those with high cholesterol and other cardiac risk factors, such as diabetes, more frequent testing is recommended. According to the guidelines on the management of blood cholesterol published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology JACC , these are the acceptable, borderline, and high measurements for adults.
Generally, guidelines are similar for men and women over the age of 20, though they differ when it comes to HDL cholesterol, as seen above. Women should aim for higher levels of HDL cholesterol. Children who are physically active , eat a nutrient-dense diet , are not overweight, and do not have a family history of high cholesterol are at a lower risk for having high cholesterol. Current guidelines recommend that all children have their cholesterol checked between ages 9 and 11 years, and then again between ages 17 and 21 years.
Children with more risk factors, such as having diabetes, obesity, or a family history of high cholesterol, should be checked between ages 2 and 8 years, and again between ages 12 and 16 years. According to the JACC , the following are the recommended cholesterol levels for children:.
Your doctor may recommend a plan of treatment for high cholesterol that includes lifestyle modifications and potentially medication. This will vary based on factors like other medications you may be taking, your age, sex, and general health. Medications can also be used to treat contributing factors to cholesterol like triglycerides.
These may be used in addition to some of the medications above. The good news is that lifestyle changes are reasonably effective in helping you reduce cholesterol levels.
There are few noticeable symptoms of high cholesterol. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Privacy policy. Strictly necessary cookies Strictly necessary cookies.
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About your cholesterol result A cholesterol test can measure: total cholesterol — the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood, including both "good" and "bad" cholesterol good cholesterol called HDL — this makes you less likely to have heart problems or a stroke bad cholesterol called LDL and non-HDL — this makes you more likely to have heart problems or a stroke triglycerides — a fatty substance similar to bad cholesterol When you get your result, you may just be told your total cholesterol.
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