LDL Cholesterol · high result
What does a high LDL Cholesterol mean?
Short answer
LDL cholesterol is the main driver of atherosclerosis; risk rises continuously with the level and the years of exposure. Below 100 mg/dL is optimal for most adults, 130–159 borderline high, 160–189 high, and 190 or above very high — the level at which familial hypercholesterolemia is considered. Diet, weight, hypothyroidism, kidney and liver disease, pregnancy and some medications raise LDL; a non-fasting sample with high triglycerides can distort a calculated LDL.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for LDL Cholesterol?
- age 18+: 0.000 – 100 mg/dL
Above 100 mg/dL is considered above optimal; targets vary by individual cardiovascular risk.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: LDL Cholesterol biomarker page.
What are the common causes of high LDL Cholesterol?
- Diet high in saturated and trans fats; excess weight
- Genetics, including familial hypercholesterolemia (LDL ≥190 mg/dL, family history of early heart disease)
- Hypothyroidism
- Nephrotic syndrome, cholestatic liver disease
- Medications: some diuretics, steroids, retinoids, some antipsychotics
- Pregnancy, menopause
What symptoms go with high LDL Cholesterol?
- None — high LDL is silent until cardiovascular disease develops
- Tendon xanthomas or corneal arcus in familial hypercholesterolemia
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Repeat fasting if the sample wasn't; check TSH
- ApoB and lipoprotein(a) for a fuller risk picture
- 10-year cardiovascular risk estimate with blood pressure, A1c and smoking status
- Family screening when LDL is 190 or higher
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ($26.99), TSH + Free T4 ($27.99).
After starting or changing a statin or other LDL-lowering treatment, the 2018 AHA/ACC cholesterol guideline calls for a repeat lipid panel 4–12 weeks later to confirm the response, then every 3–12 months once stable. Adults not on treatment are typically re-screened every 4–6 years, sooner with risk factors or a borderline result.
How do you recheck LDL Cholesterol?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Wellness Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $89.99 | Yes | 1–3 business days |
| Heart Health Panel | Panel · 5 tests | $99.99 | Yes | 3–5 business days |
| Pre-Diabetes Panel | Panel · 5 tests | $89.99 | Yes | 2–5 business days |
| Lipid Panel | Test · 4 biomarkers | $24.99 | Yes | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
What LDL level is too high?
Under 100 mg/dL is optimal; 160 or above is high and 190 or above very high. Treatment thresholds depend on overall risk, not LDL alone.
Can LDL be high without eating badly?
Yes. Genetics set much of the baseline — familial hypercholesterolemia affects about 1 in 250 people — and thyroid, kidney and liver conditions raise it regardless of diet.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.