Cholesterol

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance commonly found in your blood. Cholesterol is vital for your body to process vitamin D and make hormones. However, too much cholesterol can cause your body to form plaque on the walls of your arteries. The formation of plaque can contribute to coronary artery disease, which occurs when the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked. 

What are the types of cholesterol?

There are good and bad cholesterols that can be broken down into three different types of cholesterol:

HDL

HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein and is considered “good” cholesterol since it helps bring cholesterol back to the liver where it is removed from the bloodstream. 

LDL

LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein and is considered “bad” cholesterol since it contributes to the formation of plaque.

VLDL

VLDL stands for very low-density lipoprotein and is considered “bad” cholesterol since it contributes toward the formation of plaque because it carries triglycerides, which are a bad type of fat.

What causes high cholesterol?

Unhealthy lifestyle choices can lead to high cholesterol levels. However, genetic factors can also be a big part of your diagnosis, even if you’re making good lifestyle choices. An unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle can contribute to high cholesterol levels, as it reduces your “good” cholesterol. 

Additionally, unhealthy eating choices, including trans fats and oils, can also play a significant role in your cholesterol levels. Smoking can be another culprit leading to high cholesterol by raising the bad cholesterol and lowering your levels of good cholesterol.

What are the risks of high cholesterol?

High cholesterol can contribute to many different problems, including:

• A blood clot
• Chest pain
• Heart attack
• Carotid artery disease
• Stroke
• Peripheral artery disease

Unfortunately, there are no real symptoms of high cholesterol. However, your AFM Healthcare provider can easily measure and monitor your levels with a simple blood test. 

How can I raise my good cholesterol?

Good cholesterol can frequently be raised by exercising regularly and eating healthily. Your physician can help you with dietary recommendations and help you get on an exercise plan. Certain medications can also reduce your cholesterol levels, which your provider can explain and prescribe to you. 

If you’re concerned about your cholesterol levels, call the AFM Healthcare location nearest you, or book an appointment online today.