a-2 HDL

alpha-2 HDL

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What's

a-2 HDL

Alpha-2 HDL, commonly known as high-density lipoprotein, is a type of cholesterol often called "good cholesterol." It's a tiny, disc-shaped particle that moves through your bloodstream. Its main job is to gather extra cholesterol from your cells and tissues and carry it back to your liver. The liver then processes this cholesterol and gets rid of it from your body. This recycling and removal process is crucial for keeping your cells healthy and preventing cholesterol from building up in your arteries. In simple terms, alpha-2 HDL works like a hardworking waste management system, keeping your bloodstream clean and supporting overall heart health.

If Your Levels Are High

Having higher than normal alpha-2 HDL levels might mean that your body is doing a great job at getting rid of extra cholesterol from your cells and tissues. This can be due to various reasons, such as eating a diet full of healthy fats, exercising regularly, or even taking certain medications that boost HDL levels. However, extremely high levels could also point to some underlying issues like genetic disorders that affect how your body processes fats. It's important to remember that while high HDL is generally linked to better heart health, the connection between HDL levels and heart disease is quite complex and not completely understood.

Symptoms of High Levels

Symptoms of high levels of alpha-2 HDL are typically not noticeable, as this condition often doesn't present any physical signs.

If Your Levels are Low

Low levels of alpha-2 HDL might mean that your body's natural waste management system for dealing with extra cholesterol isn't working as well as it should. This could be due to various reasons like the food you eat, not getting enough exercise, or even your genes. Some medications or habits, like smoking, could also affect these levels. Conditions that might be linked to low alpha-2 HDL include metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and certain liver or kidney diseases, which can mess with the normal production or function of alpha-2 HDL.

Symptoms of Low Levels

Symptoms of low levels of alpha-2 HDL are often not noticeable, as this condition typically doesn't present with specific symptoms. However, it's generally associated with other health conditions that may have noticeable symptoms, such as fatigue, frequent urination, or unexplained weight gain or loss.

See References

Test for

alpha-2 HDL

Boston Heart HDL Map®

Boston Heart Diagnostics

Plasma

The Boston Heart HDL Map® test measures the five most significant HDL subpopulations in CVD risk, as well as HDL-C, triglycerides, and Apo A1. It provides information to identify patients at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Please be advised that Boston Heart Diagnostics policy states that practitioners cannot order labs on themselves or their immediate family members.

CVD & Diabetes Prevention Comprehensive

Boston Heart Diagnostics

Whole Blood

Serum

Plasma

This panel combines several tests to evaluate a patient's risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Please be advised that Boston Heart Diagnostics policy states that practitioners cannot order labs on themselves or their immediate family members.

Boston Heart HDL Map® (particles only)

Boston Heart Diagnostics

Plasma

The Boston Heart HDL Map® (particles only) test measures the five most significant HDL subpopulations in CVD risk using a proprietary gel electrophoresis technique. It provides information to identify patients at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Please be advised that Boston Heart Diagnostics policy states that practitioners cannot order labs on themselves or their immediate family members.

CardioMetabolic - Comprehensive

Boston Heart Diagnostics

Whole Blood

Serum

Plasma

This panel combines several tests, including Boston Heart's unique Cholesterol Balance®, Fatty Acid Balance™, and HDL Map®, to evaluate cardiometabolic health. Please be advised that Boston Heart Diagnostics policy states that practitioners cannot order labs on themselves or their immediate family members.

CONTENTS

What is it?

High Levels

Low Levels

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