Diagnosis
To diagnose hypercholesterolemia, your doctor needs to do a blood test. The results can help identify the levels of each sub-type and total cholesterol. Below is a rough guideline to interpreting the result:
– Total cholesterol: Measured by the levels of LDL, HDL, and 20% of triglyceride. The general target should be no more than 200 mg/dL.
– LDL or low-density lipoprotein: This is also called bad cholesterol. The general target should be between 70 and 130 mg/dL.
– HDL or high-density lipoprotein: This is also called good cholesterol. The general target should be higher than 50 mg/dL.
– Triglycerides: Depending on the sex and age, triglyceride levels can vary. The general target should be between 10 and 150 mg/dL.
It is better to interpret the results with the help of your healthcare provider. [6]
