A lipoprotein (a) Test determines content. of lipoprotein (a) In your blood. Increased levels of lipoprotein (a) means a higher risk of heart disease and heart attack.
Lipoproteins are particles made of protein and fat (lipid). They transport cholesterol through your bloodstream to your cells. The two most important groups of lipoproteins They are called HDL lipoprotein ) or “good” cholesterol and LDL (low-density lipoprotein ) or “bad” cholesterol.
Lipoprotein (A) is considered a type of LDL. It lipoproteins transports cholesterol to the cells of the arteries; if the content of LDL particles is increased, cholesterol can accumulate in the arteries and cause a blockage called plaque. This condition is known as sclerosis or “atherosclerosis.” It can lead to almost any nonsense disease, including
- Crowded, narrow or hidden coronary arteries in the heart
- Acute heart and vascular disease
- Stroke
- Peripheral arterial conditions, hidden arteries in the legs and arms
- Other vascular disorders
Lipoprotein (A) particles are stickier than other types of LDL particles and are more likely to clog or clot arteries. As a result, the highest levels can. of lipoprotein (a) mean that you are at significantly higher risk of mental disorders, heart attacks, and other serious conditions related to blockages and clots in your arteries.
A lipoprotein (a) Blood tests can give you clearer insight into your risk than routine cholesterol tests, which determine only LDL cholesterol levels. This is because a routine cholesterol test can indicate that you are at LDL cholesterol levels, but as the majority of LDL cholesterol by lipoprotein (A) particles, the risk of vascular disease and heart attack may still be high.
Other names: LP(a) cholesterol, LP(a) cholesterol.
What is it used for?
A lipoprotein (a) This test is used to gain more insight into the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and other vascular disorders. But it is not a routine screening test. Scientists still learn. how lipoprotein (a) Meaning often affects when the analysis can be applied.
Why do I need a lipoprotein (a) test?
Certain symptoms or health conditions can allow care providers to order the analysis and increase the risk of arterial blockage.
- Early heart or vascular family history (age 55 for founder or brother or sister, under 65 for mother or sister).
- High LDL cholesterol, even if you are taking medications to lower it.
- Cardiovascular disease, especially when cholesterol and triglycerides are normal without medications to lower them
- Signs of a genetic disorder called hypercholesterolemia
- Had a heart attack or multiple procedures to detect nearby or hidden arteries in the heart (angioplasty).
This test can be used to form an opinion about the risks and benefits of taking cholesterol to reduce the chances of getting heart or blood vessel damage.
What happens during a lipoprotein (a) test?
The caregiver takes a blood sample from a vein in the arm with a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood is collected in a test tube or vial. Some pressure can be felt as the needle goes in and out. This usually takes less than 5 minutes.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
Preparations for a lipoprotein (a) The test depends on the laboratory where the test is performed. As a general rule, you should fast for 9-12 hours (do not eat or drink) before taking blood. Your physician will tell you if there are any special instructions you should follow.
Certain medications may affect the results of the test. Before you. a lipoprotein (Tell your own care provider if you have drunk alcohol or from using niacin supplements, aspirin or oral estrogen hormones.
Was there any risk in the test?
The blood test is relatively risk-free. You may get a little soreness or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most signs disappear quickly.
What do the results mean?
A high lipoprotein (a) A degree of (a) means an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, even if your cholesterol is normal and healthy.
Lipoprotein (a) levels usually do not change much over time. However, test results can be affected by certain health conditions. Discuss the implications of your test results with your physician.
Is there anything else I should know? a lipoprotein (a) test?
Your genes determine how much lipoprotein (You will. By the time you are five years old, you already have adult levels. of lipoprotein (a), and it usually stays about the same for the rest of your life. Therefore, there is no potential for diet and exercise to alter your genes. lipoprotein (a) levels.
However, if levels are elevated. of lipoprotein (a), it is important to take steps to improve your heart health. Even though this may not change your heart health, it will certainly help lower your overall risk of heart and vascular problems. lipoprotein (a) levels.
Your doctor can provide this for you:
- Take medication if you have high LDL cholesterol
- Eat a healthy diet
- fall off your diet (if you have high cholesterol)
- Quit smoking
- Move regularly
- Reduce stress
- Lower blood pressure
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