Cholesterol Levels Testing & Treatment
Cholesterol is a vital substance for making certain hormones, but too much cholesterol can put you at risk for strokes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular disease. All adults should have their cholesterol levels monitored, especially those at higher risk. At Beverly Hills Concierge Doctor, we provide cholesterol level testing and treatment at our urgent care center in Los Angeles, CA.
Cholesterol is created in the body in the liver and is also in many high fat foods. There are different types of cholesterol that are monitored during testing, including:
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL)
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
- Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)
LDL cholesterol is considered the “bad” type of cholesterol, which is a waxy substance that can build up in the arteries. This can result in high blood pressure and increased risk for stroke. HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL from the blood and is considered “good.” Testing can determine the LDL, HDL, VLDL and total cholesterol – if these levels are too high, treatment may be needed.
Lipid Panel Blood Tests
The best way to perform cholesterol testing is with a lipid panel blood test. A small sample of blood is sent to the lab to check LDL, HDL, VLDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides. The desired cholesterol levels include:
- LDL – Less than 100
- HDL – 40-60+
- VLDL – Less than 20
- Triglycerides – Less than 150
- Total cholesterol – Less than 200
When HDL, triglycerides or total cholesterol are too high, treatment may be considered. Those with other risk factors such as obesity or a family history of heart disease should be carefully monitored for high cholesterol and receive treatment if their levels are above normal levels.
Treatment for high cholesterol can include lifestyle changes and medication. Eating a healthier diet, losing weight, exercising and other lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in cholesterol levels. There are also effective medications that can lower cholesterol levels.
Adults over 20 years of age should have their cholesterol checked every five years, but if you have risk factors such as obesity, family history of heart disease, high alcohol consumption, diabetes or cigarette smoking, you should be tested more frequently.
For cholesterol level testing and treatment in the Los Angeles area, contact us at Beverly Hills Concierge Doctor. We offer cholesterol testing at our urgent care center and through our house call service.