What is HDL test?

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.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the HDL test done?

The quantity of high-density lipoprotein (good) cholesterol in your blood is determined by an HDL cholesterol test. Your risk of heart disease may be decreased by high HDL levels.

2. What level is considered as the optimal levels of HDL cholesterol?

The optimal levels of HDL cholesterol are 60 mg/dL (1.6 mmol/L) or above.

3. What happens in low HDL levels?

Lower HDL cholesterol levels are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

4. What foods increase HDL?

The foods that boost “good,” or HDL cholesterol are oats, beans, legumes, olive oil, whole grains, nuts, seeds, fatty fish, and berries.

5. What are the symptoms of low HDL?

Symptoms of low cholesterol are:

  • Nervousness
  • Confusion
  • Agitation
  • Difficulty in decision making.
  • Mood swings
  • Sleep disturbances

6. What diseases cause low HDL?

The diseases that cause low HDL cholesterol levels are type II diabetes, overweight, obesity, elevated triglycerides (TGs), etc.

7. Is the HDL test done on an empty stomach?

Yes, this test is done on an empty stomach. Generally, it requires fasting for at least nine to 12 hours before the test.

8. What HDL levels are bad for men and women?

For men, an HDL level lesser than 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) keeps them at risk. And for women, an HDL level lesser than 50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L) keeps them at risk.

9. What is the price of an HDL test?

The cost of the Hdl Test ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 300. It might vary from place to place.

10. Where can I get the HDL test in Hyderabad?

Get tested for your HDL levels at Medicover Hospitals.