KNOW YOUR NUMBERS
Your test results for cholesterol, blood glucose, blood pressure and other health indicators are important numbers. But do you know what they mean? Find out what your numbers say about your health, and learn how to take control to reduce your risk of disease.
As the most important member of your health care team, you may need to know your test results for any or all of the following, as recommended by your doctor:
• Cholesterol
• HDL (good cholesterol)
• LDL (bad cholesterol)
• Triglycerides
• Blood glucose (blood sugar)
• Blood pressure (BP)
• Body Mass Index (BMI)
Your doctor’s office will order your blood tests, explain where you should go to have your blood drawn for testing, and let you know the results when the tests are completed. Your blood pressure will be measured at the doctor’s office, and the staff can also calculate your Body Mass Index. You can also use the Rethink Healthy Body Mass Index Online Calculator. Free or low-cost screenings are also offered periodically at health fairs and pharmacies, and through your local health department.
No matter where your tests are done, make sure you discuss the results with your doctor, and add the results to your personal medical history.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance found in the blood stream and in all the body’s cells. It forms cell membranes, some hormones and contributes to other bodily functions. While it is an essential chemical for health, high levels can be a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. Cholesterol cannot dissolve in blood so carriers called lipoproteins transport it. There are two main types of lipoproteins: HDL (high-density lipoproteins) and LDL (low-density lipoproteins).
HDL (good cholesterol)
HDL is considered the “good” cholesterol. HDL carries about one third of cholesterol. Many experts feel HDL carries cholesterol away from arteries and back to the liver, protecting against plaque build-up by removing excess cholesterol in arteries. This level should be high―ideally over 60 mg/dl. In itself, low HDL is a risk factor for heart disease.
LDL (bad cholesterol)
LDL is considered the “bad” cholesterol. If too much accumulates in the blood, LDL can lead to plaque build-up in our arteries (atherosclerosis) and becomes a significant risk for heart disease. Clots can form, clogging the arteries, and lead to heart attacks and strokes. A high “total cholesterol” is primarily a problem when the LDL is elevated. This level should be low, ideally less than 100 mg/dl, and even lower if there are other risk factors for heart disease.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body and also a major source of energy. Triglycerides come from foods and are also produced by the body. Calories ingested in a meal but not immediately used are converted to triglycerides and stored in fat cells. High levels can be a risk factor for heart and other metabolic diseases. This level should be low―less than 150 mg/dl is ideal.
Blood glucose (blood sugar)
The body uses glucose as fuel for energy. Insulin made by the body helps turn the glucose to energy and keeps the level of glucose in a normal range. A high level of glucose may be an indication of diabetes or pre-diabetes, a disease that affects the way the body uses glucose.
Blood pressure (BP)
BP is the natural force created when the heart pumps blood into your blood vessels. When BP is too high, the heart has to work harder to pump blood through the body. If not treated, high BP increases the risk for heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. A high BP on one day does not necessarily indicate high blood pressure. But, since high BP is called the "silent killer"―you may not feel sick if you have it―a high BP should never be ignored. If you have high BP, keep a record of your BP readings and keep your doctor informed.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI is a measurement of height and weight. It is used to determine if you are at a healthy weight for your height. Being overweight is a risk factor because it is often related to high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. The best way to maintain a healthy weight is to get regular exercise and eat healthy foods. Feel free to use the Rethink Healthy Body Mass Index Online Calculator.