High Cholesterol - Overview

Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood. The two major types of cholesterol are LDL and HDL. LDL cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, constitutes majority of the body's cholesterol content. Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol can increase the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol, known as "good" cholesterol, plays a beneficial role by absorbing cholesterol from the blood and transporting it back to the liver for elimination from the body. Having higher levels of HDL cholesterol can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Although cholesterol is necessary for proper body functioning, excessive amounts of LDL can result in different health issues. High cholesterol tablets are commonly used in conjunction with lifestyle changes for better cholesterol management. Regular cholesterol screenings can help identify and manage high cholesterol.

Causes and Management of High Cholesterol

Causes of high cholesterol include:

• Diet high in saturated and trans fats
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking
• Genetics
• Certain medical conditions like diabetes or kidney disease

Diagnosis

Your doctor will recommend you undergo a lipid profile blood test known to measure your cholesterol levels. Elevated cholesterol levels may include increased triglycerides, which can be assessed through a lipid profile blood test. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood that your body uses for energy, but high levels can increase the risk of heart disease.

Preventing High

Various high cholesterol medicines are available to help lower and control cholesterol levels effectively. To prevent high cholesterol, you should:

• Follow a low-fat diet emphasising fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit smoking and alcohol consumption
• Exercise regularly
• Reduce stress levels

Treatment For High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is a common health issue that can lead to various cardiovascular diseases. To manage this condition, doctors often prescribe a cholesterol capsule as an alternative form of medication to address cholesterol-related concerns. The medications work by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and increasing its excretion from your body. It is important to take these cholesterol tablets as prescribed and to continue taking them even if the cholesterol levels improve, as discontinuing medication can cause cholesterol levels to rise again. However, it is important to note that medications should be taken under the supervision of a doctor.

References:

• https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/high-cholesterol#:~:text=Cholesterol%20is%20a%20fat%20(also,disorder%2C%20hyperlipidemia%2C%20or%20hypercholesterolemia.
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms-causes/syc-20350800
• https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2019/02/control-your-cholesterol#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20cause%20of,can%20also%20cause%20high%20cholesterol.
• https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/blood-cholesterol
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms-causes/syc-20350800
• https://www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/ldl_hdl.htm