High Cholesterol

What is high cholesterol?

High cholesterol is a common condition that appears when blood cholesterol, a waxy substance, builds up in the blood vessel walls. Over time, it can narrow or block the affected vessels, increasing your risk of a heart attack or stroke. 

Many people don’t know they have high cholesterol since it rarely causes symptoms. Fortunately, treatment minimizes the chance of complications. 

What are the risk factors for high cholesterol?

Factors that may contribute to developing high cholesterol include:

• Poor dietary habits
• High intake of saturated or trans fats
• Low intake of high-fiber foods (plant foods)
• Lack of exercise
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol intake 
• Smoking 
• Aging

People over age 40 have a higher risk of developing high cholesterol than children, teenagers, and younger adults. 

You may also have genetic high cholesterol.

Which complications can high cholesterol cause?

When not treated, high cholesterol over time increases the risk of health complications, such as coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attack, and stroke. See a medical specialist immediately if you experience signs of chest pain, pressure, shortness of breath, numbness, or confusion. 

How is high cholesterol diagnosed?

Diagnosing high cholesterol at Hale Family Practice consists of a simple blood test to evaluate triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein (HLD), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol levels or other lipids. 

Your specialist also checks your vital signs, completes a physical exam, and discusses your medical history, lifestyle, medications, and symptoms. You might need an electrocardiogram (EKG) or other heart function tests.

How is high cholesterol treated?

Treating high cholesterol typically involves making lifestyle changes, taking medications, trying dietary supplements, or combining multiple treatments. 

It’s helpful to consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and other fiber-rich options and limit animal fat. Instead, choose fatty fish, olive oil, avocados, and other heart-healthy fats. Achieve or maintain a healthy body weight, exercise regularly, minimize stress, and get plenty of sleep. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.

If you receive cholesterol-lowering prescription medications, take them exactly as instructed by your Hale Family Practice specialist and follow up with them to ensure your treatment is effective. They may suggest you take niacin, omega-3 fatty acids, or other dietary supplements. 

Schedule an in-person or telemedicine high cholesterol evaluation at Hale Family Practice by phone or request one online today.