Understanding Your Lipid Profile: High HDL, LDL, and Triglycerides

Question
Hi Samantha, I am a 62 year old woman and recently underwent a blood test. Here's my lipid profile:
Total Cholesterol: 279
HDL:95
LDL:170
Triglycerides:70
Note that my Total Cholesterol, HDL and LDL are all really high. Is this a worrying lipid profile? Should I be working towards reducing my LDL?

Many Thanks for your advice!


Answer
Hi Betty, I'd be glad to answer your question.  Your total cholesterol is high, with the normal range being less than 220.  But this is not necessarily a bad thing, because you've got to look at the different types of cholesterol.  HDL is your "good" cholesterol, LDL and VLDL (which isn't always listed on lab reports) are "bad".  Your HDL level of 95 is very good, with the normal range being around 35-75.  With HDL, the higher, the better.  So your total cholesterol is the sum of all three types of cholesterol. This actually is not a worrying lipid profile. Your LDL is slightly high though, so you might want to take steps to reduce your LDL.  Your doctor can help you with ways to do that, such as diet and exercise.  Good luck!

Samantha

**This answer should not be viewed as a substitute for a doctor's care!**