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What Does High HDL Level Suggest?
Question: I've always had a very good HDL in the 80 range but my most recent test reading for my HDL was 116 which is extremely high. Should I be concerned and what would cause such a high reading?
Brief Answer:
No problem if it is the HDL that is increased.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
The HDL part of total cholesterol is the "good" cholesterol. This type of cholesterol is thought to be healthy and protective.
My guess is the combination of the statin that you are taking, and dietary changes, have dropped the "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and increased the HDL.
HDL cholesterol may act in a variety of helpful ways that reduce the risk for heart disease:
1. HDL cholesterol scavenges and removes LDL cholesterol.
2. HDL reduces, reuses, and recycles LDL cholesterol by transporting it to the liver where it can be reprocessed.
3. HDL cholesterol cleans the inner walls (endothelium) of blood vessels and keeps them healthy. Damage to the inner walls is the first step in the process of atherosclerosis, which causes heart attacks and strokes.
So it is a very good thing that your HDL is increased and your LDL is down. Good job!
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.
No problem if it is the HDL that is increased.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
The HDL part of total cholesterol is the "good" cholesterol. This type of cholesterol is thought to be healthy and protective.
My guess is the combination of the statin that you are taking, and dietary changes, have dropped the "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and increased the HDL.
HDL cholesterol may act in a variety of helpful ways that reduce the risk for heart disease:
1. HDL cholesterol scavenges and removes LDL cholesterol.
2. HDL reduces, reuses, and recycles LDL cholesterol by transporting it to the liver where it can be reprocessed.
3. HDL cholesterol cleans the inner walls (endothelium) of blood vessels and keeps them healthy. Damage to the inner walls is the first step in the process of atherosclerosis, which causes heart attacks and strokes.
So it is a very good thing that your HDL is increased and your LDL is down. Good job!
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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