Cholesterol refers to a fat-like, waxy substance that can be found in foods as well as your body's cells. It is an important cell membrane component to create essential hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids for digestion. However, according to Dr. Rajendra Hippalgaonkar and Dr. Mayank Yadav of Central Florida Heart Associates in Orange City, FL, when your cholesterol exceeds recommended blood levels, this can lead to heart disease, which usually includes the formation of artery plaque, a condition known as atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is a primary contributing factor to heart disease because when cholesterol and other factors build on artery walls, blood flow and oxygen to the heart become restricted, which can cause complications.
Cholesterol Types
There are two main types of cholesterol in the human body –
High-Density Lipoprotein
HDL is the "good" cholesterol because it has the ability to eliminate the bad or LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Low-Density Lipoprotein
LDL is, conversely, known as the "bad" cholesterol because this kind of cholesterol contributes to plaque buildup (and ultimately heart disease) within your arteries.
It is important to note that it is not just the total cholesterol levels that impact your overall health. The calculated LDL to HDL cholesterol ratio is also important because when an imbalance exists - with excessive levels of LDL cholesterol combined with low levels of HDL cholesterol, the risk of developing heart disease, like atherosclerosis, goes up.
Factors That Can Contribute to High Cholesterol
High cholesterol can occur from several contributing factors–
- Genetics/Family History.
- Dietary choices.
- Lack of physical movement/activity.
- Obesity/Carrying excess weight.
- Smoking and various medical conditions.
Managing High Cholesterol
One of the key ways to reduce the risk of cardiac or heart disease is to proactively manage and monitor your cholesterol level and other cardiovascular risk factors. The exact path to treatment will depend on the patient and the current severity of the condition. Cholesterol management may include–
- Medication – statins, which are the most commonly prescribed meds used to cut the risk of cardiovascular disease/events, may be added to other supplements that support improved cholesterol levels.
- Lifestyle modifications go a long way in helping to manage an excessive cholesterol condition –
- Healthy and nutritious food choices.
- Regular exercise and relaxation techniques.
- Quit smoking, to name a few.
Call for a Consultation Near You
If you live or work in and around Orange City, FL, and have concerns about your cholesterol levels or heart health, it's essential to contact medical specialists like Dr. Hippalgaonkar and Dr. Yadav of Central Florida Heart Associates for customized advice and guidance. Contact a member of our staff at (386) 774-2100 or online.