There are four types of cholesterol which are measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dl). The body cholesterol level can be found through “Lipid Profile”
Total blood cholesterol - This measurement includes lipids in blood stream. ( LDL + HDL+ triglycerides and other fat particles). The normal value of total cholesterol must be less than 200 mg/dL
HDL (High Density Lipo protein) – This is a good cholesterol and helps to prevent atherosclerosis and prevents deposition of fat inside arteries. The normal value of HDL must be greater than 60 mg/dL
LDL (low-density lipoprotein)- This cholesterol is also known as bad cholesterol and this is an important risk factor for heart disease .The LDL level should be lower than 160 mg/dL
Triglycerides: These are used by our body for energy. But a high level of triglycerides leads to heart disease. The normal value of triglycerides must be less than 150 mg/dL
Health risks of increased cholesterol
Coronary heart disease
High blood pressure
Angina
Heart arrhythmias — an irregular heart rhythm
Transient ischemic attack (TIA, or mini-stroke)
Heart attack
Stroke
Peripheral artery disease.
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