LDL Cholesterol

What is LDL cholesterol?

It's confusing, but it's important. Most people are only aware of their total cholesterol number. In fact, two kinds of cholesterol are included in the total cholesterol number: LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. Your body needs both, but too much LDL cholesterol is "bad." It can clog arteries and block the vital flow of blood. HDL cholesterol helps clear out LDL cholesterol - it's "good."

For many patients, LDL is the cholesterol doctors are concerned about.

High LDL cholesterol can stick to the inside wall of an artery and build up to form plaque. Plaque can harden and clog arteries. It can be difficult for blood to squeeze through. If blood flow to your heart is interrupted, you could have a heart attack.

High LDL cholesterol increases your risk.

High cholesterol is serious, especially when it's combined with other risk factors for heart disease: being a man over 44 or a woman over 54 or past menopause.. having a family history of heart problems.. high blood pressure... diabetes.. cigarette smoking.. .or a low level of HDL ("good") cholesterol.

Reducing LDL cholesterol may reduce your risk.

National guidelines have established LDL cholesterol goals for every adult. If you are above your LDL cholesterol goal, then your LDL cholesterol is considered too high. LDL cholesterol goals LDL cholesterol goals are based on risk factors. If you have two or more risk factors or already have heart disease, you need to reach a lower LDL cholesterol goal. Your LDL goal is either 100, below 130, or below 160.