Causes and Risk Factors of High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a wax-like substance that is carried through the blood attached to proteins. It allows the body to build healthy cells. In small amounts, it plays an important role in how the body functions. However, too much cholesterol can form fatty deposits in the bloodstream, which can eventually impact a person’s overall health. People with high cholesterol are at higher risk for stroke and heart disease.

There are two types of cholesterol: LDL, sometimes referred to as bad cholesterol, and HDL, or good cholesterol. These substances need to be properly balanced to prevent serious health effects. A doctor can diagnose high cholesterol with a cholesterol test (also called alipid panel).

People are more likely to have high cholesterol if they:

• Regularly eat an unhealthy diet
• Are overweight, obese, or physically inactive
• Smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol regularly
• Have a family history of high cholesterol, strokes, or heart disease
• Are 45 years or older (for men)
• Are 55 years or older (for women)

Some people get high cholesterol due to hereditary conditions. However, most people with cholesterol issues are older, eat poor diets, or live sedentary (inactive) lifestyles.

Unfortunately, many people live with undiagnosed high cholesterol. The condition usually doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms and must be diagnosed by a physician. When high cholesterol causes heart disease, symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, or an irregular heart beat. Some people also experience pain, weakness, or numbness in their arms or legs.

Treatment Options for High Cholesterol

Because heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that health adults receive regular cholesterol tests every 4-6 years. People who are at high risk of developing the condition should receive more frequent testing (for instance, people who have a family history of heart disease). Children are at relatively low risk of high cholesterol, but should be tested between ages 9 and 11 and again between ages 17 and 21.

Most patients can treat high cholesterol through diet and exercise. By avoiding fried foods, red meat, and other sources of saturated fat — and by balancing a diet with healthy grains, vegetables, and fruits — people can lower their bad cholesterol levels.

If a physician determines that a patient is at high risk of developing heart disease, they may recommend cholesterol-lowering medications. This is most common for people with dangerously high LDL cholesterol levels (190mg/dL or higher) and older patients with an LDL cholesterol level of 70mg/dL or higher. Doctors may also prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications to patients who have suffered a heart attack or stroke.

Medications can include:

• Niacin- This B vitamin can help the body regulate the balance of HDL and LDL cholesterol.
• Bile Acid Sequestrants- Cholesterol creates bile acids, which the body needs. These drugs eliminate bile acids, which causes the body to break down cholesterol.
• Statins- These drugs prevent the liver from creating as much LDL cholesterol.
• PSK9 Inhibitors- Delivered via injection, this new type of medicine is primarily used to treat people with genetic disorders that cause high cholesterol.

Some patients also take health supplements, including niacin, as part of their treatment. It’s important to discuss supplements and alternative therapies with a physician, since many over-the-counter treatments can interfere with prescription medications.

What to Know When Researching High Cholesterol Online

High cholesterol levels can have serious consequences for a person’s long-term health. People who fall into high-risk categories — including people who are overweight, obese, or have a family history of heart disease — should talk openly with their doctors. High cholesterol must be identified through medical tests, and only a qualified physician can determine an appropriate course for treatment.

Patients can take the first steps towards a healthier life by researching online. When searching, remember to use several different sources, particularly when evaluating factual claims. Always speak to a doctor before making health decisions. With appropriate research, people with high cholesterol can take a more active role in their treatment.