A Lipid profile test reveals 5 parameters;
- Total cholesterol [Normal: <200 mg/dl]
- Triglycerides [Norma: 50-165 mg/dl]
- HDL (aka good cholesterol) [Norma: 35-75 mg/dl]
- LDL (aka bad cholesterol) [Norma: 70-105 mg/dl]
- VLDL [Norma: 10-35 mg/dl]
Most patients know the name "cholesterol." Many patients know "good and bad cholesterol." Almost all patients aren't aware of "Triglycerides." Sometimes, some patients come and ask for the "cholesterol" test. Hence, "cholesterol test" and "lipid profile" are synonymous to them.
Today one patient with a history of dyslipidemia (lipid disorder), hypertension, and DM visited me. His current complaint was vertigo! I found his blood pressure quite high. He wanted to check his lipid profile, blood sugar status, and kidney function. His blood sugar result and kidney test results were within normal range.
However, the lipid profile test was quite abnormal. His Triglycerides were 1615 mg/dl (the normal maximum limit is 165 mg/dl). I have never seen such a high TGL level in my life! His total cholesterol and LDL were also above the normal limits.
His raised blood pressure, greatly disturbed blood lipids, and vertigo- all were connected. I prescribed medicines and emphasized non-drug management (diet and exercise)!
