Information on High Cholesterol

Understanding High Cholesterol

With today’s focus on high cholesterol, many people understandably have a bad impression of this important element of body chemistry. However, cholesterol actually performs a vital function by building cells and hormones. It travels through your bloodstream by means of lipoproteins made up of cholesterol and proteins. These lipoproteins carry one of three different kinds of cholesterol:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol, accumulates in your artery walls, creating hardened, narrowed arteries.
• Very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL) contains higher amounts of triglycerides (fat), which enlarges the cholesterol particles, causing further narrowing of the arteries.
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) or“good” cholesterol, transports excess cholesterol back to your liver for processing, removing cholesterol from inside the arteries.

Causes

Most people can control high cholesterol with a healthy diet, exercise and by maintaining a proper weight. Genetic factors, however, can contribute to unhealthy cholesterol levels and are beyond your control.

Risk Factors

Many risk factors associated with high cholesterol are avoidable. These include:

• Diets high in red meat, fat and full-fat dairy products
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Diabetes
• High Blood Pressure

Symptoms

High cholesterol has no symptoms, so it’s wise to have your levels tested, beginning at age 20, and every five years thereafter. Talk to your physician to learn what cholesterol levels are appropriate for you.

Treating High Cholesterol

The healthcare professionals at South Miami Heart Center offer many solutions for patients with high cholesterol. Your treatment plan may begin with simple lifestyle modifications. If your cholesterol has progressed to unhealthy levels, medication can help bring those levels down. Our multidisciplinary staff provides the support needed to lower your cholesterol with healthy eating plans, exercise regimens and, if necessary, medication.

Physician Referral

Get an online referral to a South Miami Heart Center physician or call the South Miami Heart Center Physician Referral line at 786-662-2222.