Over a hundred million adults in the US have high cholesterol, putting them at increased risk for a number of dangerous health conditions, including heart disease and high blood pressure. Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany and Saltillo, has helped countless patients assess and treat their high cholesterol, allowing them to improve their health and manage their condition. Call our office or book your appointment online today.
High cholesterol, also known as “Hypercholesterolemia,” is a common condition that affects millions of adults in the US, posing an increased risk for serious health problems like heart disease and high blood pressure. At the Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany and Saltillo, we specialize in helping patients assess and treat high cholesterol, empowering them to improve their health and effectively manage this condition. By addressing high cholesterol early and effectively, we can reduce the risk of complications and enhance overall cardiovascular health.
Living with high cholesterol can present challenges as it often requires lifestyle modifications and medical interventions. Our healthcare professionals are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to individuals with high cholesterol. We understand the impact it can have on your well-being, and we are committed to working with you to develop a personalized plan that suits your needs. Improve your cholesterol levels and promote a healthier future today.
High cholesterol is a condition that can silently affect your health, often without noticeable signs or symptoms. However, it is essential to understand the potential indicators that may suggest elevated cholesterol levels. Symptoms of high cholesterol may include:
Chest pain or discomfort: This can be an indication of reduced blood flow to the heart, potentially leading to a heart attack or coronary artery disease.
Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing can be a result of reduced blood flow to the heart or other cardiovascular issues.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy, even after adequate rest, may be associated with high cholesterol levels and cardiovascular strain.
High blood pressure: Elevated blood pressure can be a sign of underlying heart problems, including high cholesterol.
Yellowish deposits on the skin: Raised patches of yellowish material, called xanthomas, may develop on the skin, particularly around the eyes or on tendons.
It is important to note that these symptoms can vary among individuals, and some people may not experience any noticeable signs. Regular cholesterol screenings and check-ups with a healthcare professional are crucial for assessing your cholesterol levels and overall heart health. Our experienced team at the Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany and Saltillo, is dedicated to providing comprehensive care, including cholesterol management, to help you maintain optimal heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
High cholesterol is a condition that affects the levels of cholesterol in your blood and can have serious implications for your heart health. Understanding the causes of high cholesterol is key to managing and reducing the associated risks. Causes of high cholesterol include:
Unhealthy diet: Consuming foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can contribute to high cholesterol levels.
Lack of physical activity: Leading a sedentary lifestyle can negatively impact cholesterol levels and overall heart health.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of high cholesterol.
Genetics: Family history and genetics play a significant role in cholesterol levels, as some people may inherit genes that cause higher cholesterol production.
Age and gender: Cholesterol levels tend to rise as we age, and men are more likely to have higher levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol compared to premenopausal women.
Understanding the causes of high cholesterol is crucial for making informed decisions about your health. Our experienced team at the Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany and Saltillo, is here to provide expert guidance, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to help you manage your cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart-related conditions. Together, we can work towards achieving optimal heart health and a healthier future.
Your diet plays a crucial role in managing your cholesterol levels and promoting heart health. Understanding which foods contain high levels of cholesterol can help you make informed choices for a balanced and heart-healthy diet. Foods high in cholesterol include:
Saturated fats: Foods like red meat, full-fat dairy products, butter, and tropical oils such as coconut and palm oil are high in saturated fats, which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels.
Trans fats: Trans fats are found in many processed and fried foods, such as packaged snacks, baked goods, and fast food. They not only raise LDL (bad) cholesterol but also lower HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
Organ meats: Liver and other organ meats are high in cholesterol and should be consumed in moderation.
Shellfish: While shellfish can be part of a healthy diet, they tend to contain higher levels of cholesterol compared to other types of seafood.
Processed meats: Deli meats, sausages, and hot dogs often contain high levels of saturated fats and cholesterol.
Making mindful food choices and incorporating heart-healthy options into your diet is essential for managing cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.
High cholesterol is a common condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, and fortunately, there are several effective treatments available to manage this condition. Lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in the treatment process, including adopting a heart-healthy diet that is low in saturated fats and cholesterol, regular exercise, and weight management.
However, when lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient, medication may be prescribed. Statins, the most commonly prescribed class of drugs for high cholesterol, work by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol production, thereby lowering LDL levels. Other medications, such as bile acid sequestrants, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and PCSK9 inhibitors, may also be utilized to further reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
At IM&PC, we are dedicated to promoting your overall well-being through comprehensive wellness exams and personalized healthcare solutions. Our providers specialize in diagnosing and treating high cholesterol, ensuring that you receive the utmost care and attention for this condition.
We offer a holistic approach to high cholesterol management, incorporating lifestyle modifications, dietary counseling, and exercise programs tailored to your individual needs. With our expertise and dedication, we strive to help you achieve optimal cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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