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Cholesterol is a fatty and waxy compound. It plays a key role in cell formation and synthesis of certain hormones.
The two main types of cholesterol are:
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)
LDL is often termed as "bad" cholesterol. Its high concentration can cause plaque build-up in the arteries, leading to cardiovascular problems and stroke. HDL is termed as "good" cholesterol. It helps clear out extra LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems. Understanding the relationship between cholesterol and heart health is essential to improve your lifestyle and go for preventive measures that reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Synopsis
Cholesterol and Heart Health
Cholesterol and heart health are strongly interconnected. The more effectively we understand its impact on our body, the better we can manage it.
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Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up gradually in the arteries. It makes the arteries rigid and narrow. This disrupts the normal blood flow. The excessive accumulation of LDL cholesterol levels causes this situation. In turn, the restricted blood flow puts the heart health at risk. The heart feels a strain that leads to chest pain. This is why monitoring and managing LDL cholesterol levels is crucial.
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Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
The coronary arteries are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to our heart muscles. They are highly susceptible to developing atherosclerosis. This diminished blood flow becomes the onset of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). It can cause chest pain (angina). In dire circumstances, there might be a complete blockage of a coronary artery. Such conditions may lead to heart attacks.
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Stroke
With the disruption of blood flow, elevated cholesterol levels may form blood clots and plaque in cerebral arteries. This can result in strokes. Severity may even lead to neurological deficits. So, it’s important to keep your cholesterol levels in check. Consulting an expert heart specialist early on can help reduce these risks.
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Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Excessive cholesterol accumulation can impact arteries in the arms and legs, causing peripheral artery disease (PAD). This condition may result in compromised mobility, pain, cramps, etc.
What Are the Risks Associated with High Cholesterol?
We may need to stay aware of a few specific factors to reduce the risk of higher cholesterol levels. Let us discuss them one by one below:
1. Genetics
If you have a family history of elevated cholesterol levels, you are at a greater risk. This is why doctors comprehensively check your medical history to determine how susceptible you are.
2. Diet
Following a diet rich in saturated and trans fats may contribute to higher LDL cholesterol levels. They are often found in processed and fried food and also in the fatty cuts of meat.
3. Lack of Exercise
A sedentary lifestyle is common now. Lack of physical movement disrupts the body’s ability to maintain a balance in cholesterol levels.
4. Obesity
Maintaining your body weight is very important to control LDL cholesterol levels. Being obese, especially in the abdominal region, may increase your risks. Abdominal fat influences our cholesterol metabolism and storage. That is why it is crucial to follow a healthy lifestyle to keep the risks at bay.
5. Smoking
Smoking is a major health hazard. The harmful chemicals create a favourable environment for bad cholesterol to accumulate, thus increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues.
6. Diabetes
People with diabetes experience a disruptive insulin function. It influences how the body processes cholesterol. Hence, regular monitoring of this condition is necessary.
How Is Prevention and Management of Cholesterol Done?
An experienced cardiologist will guide you through the correct measures to manage your cholesterol levels. Here, let us discuss the general recommendations of a professional on How to Reduce Cholesterol.
- Healthy Diet
Adopting a healthy diet is a key lifestyle modification. Start eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins more. Following a good habit contributes greatly to managing our cholesterol levels.
- Limiting Saturated and Trans Fats
Avoid foods that are rich in saturated and trans fats. You can take the guidance of a medical specialist. They can help you curate a diet chart suitable to your health condition.
- Regular Exercise
Engage yourself in regular physical activities. It can be exercising or doing any household chores. The more your body moves, the more it will raise the HDL cholesterol levels.
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Following a healthy diet and exercising regularly will help you maintain a healthy weight, too. This contributes to our overall heart health.
- Avoiding Tobacco
Quitting smoking helps balance cholesterol levels and keeps you healthy overall.
- Moderate Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption can exacerbate high cholesterol levels. Quit or moderate your alcohol intake to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
- Medications
The treatment plan for managing cholesterol levels may vary depending on individual situations. Statin-like medications are often prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels.
- Regular Check-ups
Regular cholesterol screenings are crucial to identify any irregularities and take necessary measures to manage cholesterol levels effectively.
What Are the Cholesterol Level Guidelines for Assessing Imbalance?
Below are the different cholesterol levels to help you assess the imbalance:
Total Cholesterol
- Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL
- Borderline High: 200-239 mg/dL
- High: 240 mg/dL and above
LDL Cholesterol
- Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
- Near-Optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
- Borderline High: 130-159 mg/dL
- High: 160-189 mg/dL
- Very High: 190 mg/dL and above
HDL Cholesterol
- Low: Less than 40 mg/dL
- High: 60 mg/dL and above
Please note that this is only an estimate, and a doctor can only do an accurate analysis of high cholesterol. It’s advised to visit Manipal Hospitals Hebbal Cardiology unit to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
FAQ's
The signs of high cholesterol include the following:
Chest pain
A feeling of fullness and pressure in your heart
Dizziness
Slurred speech
Unsteady gait
Pain in the lower portion of the legs.
The plaque created by high cholesterol may harden and narrow the arteries. This forces our heart to work harder to pump the blood resulting in higher blood pressure, affecting our heart health.
Yes, regular exercise contributes a lot to managing cholesterol levels. However, the intensity of these activities is best determined by your doctor.
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