Alipid paneltest measures HDL levels.
This article discusses low HDL, and related symptoms and complications including the risk of heart failure anddiabetes.
It also covers when to see your healthcare provider.
GIPhotoStock / Getty Images
GIPhotoStock / Getty Images
Healthy Cholesterol Levels
A healthy cholesterol level depends on your age and sex.
Low HDL levels may cause deposits of cholesterol to form throughout the body.
They can help prevent conditions in which a low HDL level is more likely to contribute to health problems.
Moderation with alcohol intake is important, too.
Certain drugs, includingbeta blockersand the progestins in birth control pills, can lower HDL levels.
Summary
Not all cholesterol is bad for youboth LDL and HDL play important roles in the body.
HDL is considered the good cholesterol because it helps to remove bad cholesterol and protect your health.
The problem is when LDL levels get too high and HDL levels are too low.
Having low HDL levels doesnt often cause symptoms, especially early on.
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