Unlike many diseases and conditions, high cholesterol has no visible symptoms and can only be detected by a blood test. Your cholesterol level is considered “high” when the bad, or low-density, cholesterol has accumulated in the walls of your arteries, making them narrow and hard. This reduces blood flow, which can result in more severe complications such as chest pain, stroke, and heart attack.
Some of the common factors that increase cholesterol levels include:
A cholesterol blood test will report levels of total cholesterol, high and low density (good and bad) cholesterol, as well as triglyceride levels. If your Ogden Clinic doctor finds your cholesterol levels to be too high, they will first recommend some simple self-management tools to restore healthy levels. If self-management and lifestyle changes alone do not reduce your cholesterol levels, your doctor may recommend some alternative treatments.
The most important keys to managing and reducing high cholesterol levels are maintaining an active lifestyle, losing excess weight, eating a healthy diet, and refraining from smoking and drinking alcohol. Part of eating a healthier diet includes eating less saturated and trans fat, both of which are commonly found in processed meats, packaged snacks, and margarine. Instead, choose healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, almonds, and fish. Patients with high cholesterol should eat lean meat, drink skim milk, and eat no more than 7 eggs per week. Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as heart-healthy whole grains, can also bring down cholesterol levels.
If you have been unable to lower your cholesterol with diet and exercise alone, your Ogden Clinic doctor may recommend the use of cholesterol medication. There are a variety of different options available, including medicines that can help your body lower its cholesterol levels, lower its triglyceride levels, and alternative therapies for those who do not wish to use prescription drugs. Some common cholesterol medications include:
Call Ogden Clinic today to schedule an appointment for a cholesterol blood test. One of our doctors would be happy to go over the results with you and help you develop a plan to lead a healthier lifestyle.