Cholesterol levels

| The diagnosis of hypercholesterolemia can only be made with a blood test that should include total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and LDL.

The WHO recommends not exceeding 300mg daily of cholesterol through the diet and controlling the consumption of saturated fat (a fundamental cause for developing hypocholesterolemia)

The diagnosis of hypercholesterolemia can only be made through a blood test that should include the determination of: total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol. However, any value detected above the normal value should be confirmed by a second analysis after a few weeks.

Currently, a total cholesterol level greater than 200mg / dl is considered elevated.

If the result is between 200-240mg / dl, it would require a diet low in cholesterol and it would be subject to subsequent controls.

Above 240mg / dl (confirmed in 2 tests), medication could be required if diet is not enough.

Currently, an LDL cholesterol level greater than 100mg / dl is considered elevated.

• If the result is between 100-160mg / dl, it would require a diet low in cholesterol and it would be subject to subsequent controls.
• Above 160mg / dl (confirmed in 2 tests), medication may be required if diet is not enough.

Paradoxically, a high HDL cholesterol value (protective cholesterol) is desirable.

• Greater than 35mg / dl in men
• Greater than 40 mg / dl in women

The total cholesterol value in isolation does not give enough information. The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL must be calculated. If this ratio is less than 4.5, the risk of suffering a cardiovascular event is low. On the contrary, a ratio above 4.5 implies a high risk.

It has been shown that total blood cholesterol levels above 240 mg / dl imply a double risk of suffering a myocardial infarction compared to levels below 200mg / dl.

However, the excess of cholesterol in the blood is not symptomatic at the beginning, so it is highly recommended to carry out an annual analysis to detect possible alterations. Remember that high cholesterol levels must be treated with hygienic-dietetic and medical measures.

It is recommended to carry out analytical controls from infancy in individuals whose parents or siblings are diagnosed with primary or genetic dyslipidaemia. In the rest of the individuals, it may be appropriate to have a determination before 18 years of age. And it will be required in all individuals who have suffered one or have risk factors.

He includes a Preventive Medicine program aimed at taking care of your health, at least once a year. Get a checkup!