What does the Total Cholesterol - TC blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:
Total Cholesterol (TC) is a measure of all cholesterol types in your blood, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and triglycerides. It's a crucial indicator of cardiovascular health and risk for heart disease. High levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Regular monitoring helps in assessing overall lipid metabolism and guides lifestyle changes or medical interventions. TC is influenced by diet, exercise, genetics, and certain medical conditions.
A low total cholesterol reading (<125 mg/dL) is relatively uncommon but can be concerning. It may indicate:
Low cholesterol can potentially impact hormone production and cell membrane integrity. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and to identify the underlying cause.
A high total cholesterol reading (>200 mg/dL) indicates an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. It may be due to:
High cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Lifestyle modifications and possibly medication (e.g., statins) may be recommended to lower cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.