Nearly 43 percent of Americans have high cholesterol according to the American Heart Association. Caucasian women and Hispanic men are most at risk. Because there are usually no symptoms, many people are not aware they have high cholesterol. “This is why cholesterol screening is so important,” says Richard Pigg, M.D., CHI Memorial Primary Care Associates - Hixson. “High cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, leading causes of death in this country.”
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance our bodies use to make hormones, vitamin D, and aid in food digestion. Our bodies make all the cholesterol we need but we get additional cholesterol through foods like some meats and dairy products. Excess cholesterol can build up and form plaque in the arteries. If too much cholesterol builds up in your arteries, it can narrow the path for blood flow which can lead to heart disease explains Dr. Pigg.
How do I know if I have high cholesterol?
Your doctor can order a simple blood test to measure your total cholesterol. You will usually need to fast up to 12 hours before the test to get an accurate result.
What does my cholesterol number mean?
Cholesterol is carried through the bloodstream by two types of lipoproteins, LDL and HDL.
· HDL (high-density lipoprotein) – This is known as the ‘good’ cholesterol. It helps carry away the LDL cholesterol. You want your HDL level to be high to reduce your risk of heart disease. Low HDL can be the result of genetics, type 2 diabetes, smoking, being inactive and being overweight
· LDL (low-density lipoprotein) - LDL is considered the ‘bad’ cholesterol because it can contribute to a buildup of plaque which can clog arteries. A diet high in saturated and trans fats can raise LDL cholesterol.
· Triglycerides – This is the most common type of fat in your body. It stores excess energy from the food you eat. Triglyceride levels change with age and gender. Elevated triglycerides can be caused by excess weight, physical inactivity, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption and a diet very high in carbohydrates. Many people with high triglycerides have a high total cholesterol level, including a too much LDL cholesterol (bad) level and too little HDL cholesterol (good) level.
Desirable Cholesterol Levels
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Total cholesterol
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Less than 200 mg/dL
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LDL("bad") cholesterol
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Less than 110 mg/dL
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HDL("good") cholesterol
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35 mg/dL or higher
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Triglycerides
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Less than 150 mg/dL
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Source: CDC
How often should my cholesterol level be checked?
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends all adults age 20 and older have their cholesterol checked every four to six years. You may need to have your cholesterol checked more often if:
§ Your total cholesterol is 200 mg/dL or higher
§ You are a man older than age 45 or a woman older than age 50
§ Your HDL cholesterol is lower than 40 mg/dL
- You have other risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
How can you prevent or treat high cholesterol?
“Many people are able to make lifestyle changes to help improve cholesterol levels. Even with those changes, some will need to take medication to reach a healthy cholesterol level,” says Dr. Pigg. Lifestyle changes can include:
- Healthy diet - Eat low-fat and high-fiber foods including more fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid saturated fats and trans fats, which tend to raise cholesterol levels. Other types of fats, such as polyunsaturated fats, can actually lower blood cholesterol levels.
- Exercise - Physical activity can help lower cholesterol. Adults should get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate exercise or 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity each week.
- Healthy weight - Being overweight or obese can raise your cholesterol levels. Losing weight can help lower your cholesterol.
- Don’t smoke - If you smoke, quit as soon as possible.
High cholesterol increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. Dr. Pigg recommends talking with your primary care physician to determine your risk and develop a plan to manage it.
CHI Memorial Primary Care Associates is located at 2051 Hamill Road, Suite 306, Hixson, TN 37421. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pigg, call (423) 877-1249.