Important blood tests in relation to the heart – Cardiology Basics

Important blood tests in relation to the heart – Cardiology Basics Here are some important blood tests in relation to the heart. Normal ranges of some of these tests may vary between labs. Cholesterol is a type of fat found in the blood and has a role in the development of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries as well as other arteries. Desirable value of total cholesterol in blood is less than 200 milligrams per decilitre. Triglycerides is another type of fat found in the blood. Desirable value is less than 150 milligrams per decilitre. Very high levels of triglycerides carry a risk of pancreatitis. Calorie restriction is important in reducing triglyceride levels in addition to fat restriction. This is because excess calories, typically carbohydrates, get converted to triglycerides in the body. HDL cholesterol or high density lipoprotein cholesterol is called good cholesterol as it is involved in reverse cholesterol transport from the blood vessels to the liver. It is nice to have HDL cholesterol above 60 milligrams per decilitre. HDL levels can be increased by regular exercise programs. Pharmacological approaches to increase HDL have not be useful so far. Higher values of HDL cholesterol are better for you, though there is a concern that extremely high values could be deleterious. LDL cholesterol or low density lipoprotein cholesterol is called bad cholesterol. Excess LDL cholesterol in blood can lead to atherosclerosis in the important arteries and lead to stroke ...
Source: Cardiophile MD - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: General Cardiology Source Type: blogs