Cholesterol is an essential component of the human body, as it helps to produce hormones and other important compounds. However, in excess, cholesterol can become dangerous to your health, leading to serious medical conditions. There are two major types of cholesterol – ‘good’ HDL cholesterol and ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol – and the amount of each type that is considered dangerously high may differ from person to person depending on their risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
On average however, a dangerously high level of either type is typically defined as one higher than 240mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) when measured by a simple blood test known as a lipid profile or lipoprotein panel. If your results come back with levels above this, then it will be time for you to discuss potential treatments with your doctor such as dietary changes and medications that can help reduce these levels accordingly i.e statins & fibrates etc., if necessary.
When it comes to good (HDL) cholesterol; too much isn’t necessarily dangerous but if your levels come back greater than 60mg/dL then you may want to consider taking action in order to lower them over time through changes in diet – HDL usually rises with regular exercise and weight loss – plus additional lifestyle modifications as suggested by your healthcare provider i.e quitting smoking/alcohol consumption in excess etc., depending upon individual circumstances.
When evaluating risk factors for heart disease; doctors look at both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol levels alongside other medical issues such as obesity, hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes mellitus and a family history of any coronary related complications present within an individual’s genetic relatives- all which contribute towards the overall assessment of one’s chances of developing any associated disorders or illnesses in future years. Maximal benefits from treatment plans offered by medical professionals may be achieved through bearing these extra measures in mind – alongside close monitoring/care from specialists recommended as part of formal healthcare processes when patients have levels that exceed what is deemed ‘safe’.
Individuals must keep close tabs on their cholesterol levels regardless – but even more so should anyone suffer from any underlying conditions or show risk agents toward possible cardiac complications present down the line- taking into account all relevant information & advice provided by qualified medical professionals along the way so that appropriate actions taken can bring about beneficial outcomes over time with regard to improving overall health & well being where needed most.
