Lipids are the fatty acids and their derivatives present in human bodies. They play a major role in the functioning of the body. Lipids are part of the cell membranes and hormones, as well as a powerhouse of energy. However, high levels of specific types of lipids can be harmful, particularly to the cardiovascular health of a person. Fortunately, today it is easy to get a lipid profile blood test done at a cost-effective price to monitor the lipid levels in the body.
The lipid profile test measures levels of four different types of cholesterol and triglycerides.
LDL (low-density lipoproteins)
LDL is the cholesterol that is considered “bad cholesterol” as it forms plagues in the arteries and can negatively impact heart health. Hence, LDL cholesterol must be maintained in the lower range.
VLDL (very low-density lipoproteins)
VLDL appears in the blood right after one has consumed food. A lipid profile test is therefore done as a fasting test, so if there is an increased level of VLDL in the blood sample, it might be an indication of some metabolic disease.
HDL (high-density lipoproteins)
HDL cholesterol is also referred to as “good cholesterol” as it helps in clearing away the bad LDL cholesterol and prevents its build-up.
Total cholesterol
This is the sum of all the different types of cholesterol in the body.
Triglycerides
The body converts the excess calories into triglycerides and stores them as body fat. High levels of triglycerides might be harmful to the pancreas, liver, and heart.
Why is the Lipid Profile Test Performed?
A lipid profile test is recommended by doctors to find out more about the cardiovascular risk factors of the patient. Elevated cholesterol levels may imply that one is at a higher risk of suffering from heart issues like hypertension, heart attack, or atherosclerosis.
High cholesterol levels do not cause any visible symptoms, and hence lipid profile test is used by doctors to identify elevated levels early on before they adversely impact cardiovascular health. Details of the rates charged for lipid profile tests or even thyroid profile test can be found online.