A cholesterol panel, or lipid panel, is a set of blood tests measuring cholesterol levels and other fats in the blood. This test helps patients and their physicians assess the risk of heart disease, blood vessel disease, and stroke and develop a plan to manage and lower that risk if necessary. Let’s talk more about cholesterol panels and what normal cholesterol levels look like.
What Are the Normal and Abnormal Values for a Cholesterol Panel?
A cholesterol panel measures different types of fats in your blood to assess your risk for heart disease and other related conditions. Understanding the normal levels for each component of the panel is essential for maintaining good cardiovascular health.
- Total Cholesterol: A healthy total cholesterol level is less than 200 mg/dL. This measures the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood, including LDL and HDL.
- LDL Cholesterol: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often called “bad” cholesterol, should be less than 100 mg/dL. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- HDL Cholesterol: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as “good” cholesterol, should be over 39 mg/dL. HDL cholesterol helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Triglycerides: The normal triglyceride level, a type of fat found in your blood, is less than 150 mg/dL. High triglyceride levels can increase your risk of heart disease and may indicate other health issues.
Maintaining these levels within the normal range is crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. If your cholesterol levels are outside these ranges, lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication may be necessary to bring them back to healthy levels.
What Can I Do to Improve My Cholesterol Levels?
- Lower Total and LDL Cholesterol:
- Diet: Follow a low-fat, low-meat diet with plenty of healthy fruits and vegetables.
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight.
- Raise HDL Cholesterol:
- Physical Activity: Regularly exercise to boost HDL, the “good” cholesterol.
- Lower Triglycerides:
- Diet: Incorporate high-fiber foods such as flax, legumes, and oats.
How Can I Order a Cholesterol Panel Lab Test?
QuickMD allows you to order your own cholesterol panel online without a doctor’s visit. Here’s how it works:
- Order the Test: Visit QuickMD’s lab ordering page and order a cholesterol panel.
- Sample Collection: Make an appointment at your nearest LabCorp location to provide a blood sample.
- Receive Results: Once LabCorp reports your results, a QuickMD doctor will contact you with the results. If your results are abnormal, the doctor will discuss the next steps with you.
Get Professional Advice on Cholesterol Panels with QuickMD
For personalized medical advice and to order a cholesterol panel, QuickMD’s telemedicine urgent care services are here to help. Consult with a QuickMD provider today to understand your cholesterol levels and manage your heart health effectively.
Do you need a cholesterol panel test? Visit QuickMD today to schedule your telemedicine appointment and get expert guidance on managing your cholesterol levels.
