What does high cholesterol refer to?
High cholesterol itself is not a disease, but it is a risk factor for atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries) and cardiovascular disease. Specifically, high cholesterol refers to a high numbers of small, dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL; “bad” cholesterol) particles, which pose the highest risk for cardiovascular disease complications.
What are risk factors of high cholesterol?
There are two types of risk factors for high cholesterol: modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Modifiable risk factors for high cholesterol include obesity, non-genetic hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, smoking, type 2 diabetes, lack of physical activity, high stress, atherogenic diet (a diet high in cholesterol, fat, and salt), systemic inflammation and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Non-modifiable risk factors for high cholesterol include family history, age, gender, infectious agents, genetic hypercholesterolemia, type I diabetes.
How is high cholesterol detected?
Symptoms of high cholesterol are often subtle, especially early in the disease process of atherosclerosis. Serum profiling of lipoprotein particle size and composition is used to determine the effect of high cholesterol and is a useful predictor of risk for developing cardiovascular disease. For those with asymptomatic atherosclerosis caused by high cholesterol, blood pressure and carotid artery ultrasound (carotid intima-media thickness; CIMT) screening techniques are used to detect the disease.
What is the treatment for high cholesterol?
At Cascade Integrative Medicine, we help patients manage their high cholesterol through a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and, if necessary, medications. Here are some of the common approaches our doctors may implement when treating high cholesterol:
Lifestyle changes
- Healthy Diet: Adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats can significantly reduce cholesterol levels. This includes consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those found in nuts, avocados, and olive oil.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, can help raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.
- Weight Management: Losing excess weight can help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial.
Medications
- Statins: These medications are commonly prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol levels. They work by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol.
- Bile Acid Sequestrants: These drugs help reduce LDL cholesterol by promoting its removal from the body.
- Ezetimibe (Zetia): This medication works by decreasing the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine
Regular Monitoring and Follow-Up
Monitoring cholesterol levels through blood tests is crucial to track progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
The most effective approach often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and, if necessary, appropriate medications. It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan based on individual health conditions, risk factors, and medical history.