You’ve likely heard that there is “good” cholesterol and “bad” cholesterol, but what is cholesterol anyway and why is it so important?
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance made by your liver and is an essential building block for important hormones in your body. The body is designed to manufacture an adequate supply of cholesterol to support the body’s needs, but with the addition of dietary cholesterol, the cholesterol levels in the blood can increase. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can create buildup in the blood vessels, resulting in atherosclerosis, a narrowing of blood vessels. Blood vessels blocked by cholesterol deposits can increase blood pressure and evolve into widespread cardiovascular disease. In severe cases, the narrowing in coronary arteries can result in chest pain or trigger a cardiovascular event like a heart attack or stroke.
HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) is known as “good” cholesterol as it helps cholesterol to be absorbed and carried to the liver for disposal. LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) is known as “bad” cholesterol as it can build up in your blood vessels as plaque and increase your risk for developing cardiovascular disease.
Treatment Plans
At EveresT Men’s Health, our team of medical providers will evaluate your cholesterol levels, looking at your Total Cholesterol and your ratio of HDL/LDL cholesterol and complete a cardiovascular risk calculation. Upon reviewing your cholesterol levels, one of our medical providers may advise medication management or lifestyle improvements through increased fitness and improved nutrition or a combination of medication management and lifestyle changes. Based on your individual levels and projected cardiovascular risk we will determine the most appropriate treatment options for you.
In the event that a prescription medication is deemed necessary, our medical providers will evaluate to ensure that you are not having any unpleasant treatment related side effects. We will continue to monitor your cholesterol during treatment to ensure that your cholesterol levels are properly managed and make dosing adjustments as needed.
If you’re ready to start treating your high cholesterol, schedule an appointment with EveresT Men’s Health today!