High Cholesterol

When is high cholesterol diagnosed?

High cholesterol means you have too many lipids (fats) in your blood. While you need some cholesterol to build new cells, unhealthy levels can cause serious complications.
High cholesterol may lead to the development of fatty deposits in your blood vessels, resulting in blocked arteries and an increased heart disease and stroke risk.

If your total cholesterol is below 200 mg/dl, your level is considered healthy. However, the practitioners at HealthStone Primary Care Partners will also look at your HDL and LDL levels as well as your triglycerides.

What are LDL and HDL?

You may hear of HDL, or high-density lipoproteins, labeled as the “good” kind. HDL removes cholesterol from your arteries. LDL, or low-density lipoproteins, are considered “bad” cholesterol. This is the type that increases fatty deposits and raises your risk of developing blockages that endanger your health.

If you have too little HDL or too much LDL, you’re at a greater risk of health complications. This is why your total cholesterol and your HDL and LDL ratio are evaluated. Ideally, your LDL levels are below 100 mg/dl and HDL are 60 mg/dl or higher.

Who is at risk of high cholesterol?

Some people have high cholesterol due to genetics. Lifestyle choices also increase your risk. A sedentary lifestyle, cigarette smoking, diabetes, and poor dietary choices make you more prone to unfavorable cholesterol levels.

A diet high in saturated fat can raise your cholesterol levels as can obesity.

How is high cholesterol evaluated and treated?

The practitioners order blood work to routinely evaluate your cholesterol levels. High cholesterol doesn’t have outward symptoms.

If your levels are at unhealthy points that risk of disease, the medical team will put together a customized treatment plan to help you get your levels under control.

A cornerstone of this plan is dietary changes that involve adding more fresh, whole foods — particularly fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Some people may also need medications, such as statins, to lower cholesterol levels. Medications are a complement to lifestyle changes, not a replacement for them.

If you’re at risk of high cholesterol or need management of your levels, call HealthStone Primary Care Partners right way or request an appointment online.

We offer botox and fillers. Call us to book your appointment today.