High cholesterol is a significant risk cause of heart disease which is the most common cause of deaths within the United States. There is a consensus that nearly 100 million Americans have high cholesterol and many of them are not aware of the health condition. We’ll talk about what constitutes high cholesterol as well as what the normal cholesterol level is and when it is the right time to be taken. We’ll also discuss the most effective methods to control high cholesterol, using or without medications.
What is High Cholesterol?
Cholesterol, a waxy compound found in bloodstreams that is necessary for many body functions. If there’s excessive cholesterol within the bloodstream it could build up in the walls of the arteries which can lead to the formation of plaque. As time passes, the plaque may reduce blood flow or block the arteries which can lead to heart disease as well as other health issues. A high cholesterol level is an elevated cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL or more.
The Normal Cholesterol Range
The norm for cholesterol is usually less than 200 mg/dL. However, the ideal cholesterol level is contingent on many variables, such as gender, age, and general health. For instance, women are more likely to have lower levels of cholesterol than men and cholesterol levels typically increase as you the advancing years. Your physician can assist you to determine your own ideal cholesterol levels and the significance of your cholesterol levels for your overall health.
When Should Action be Taken?
If your cholesterol levels are greater than 200 mg/dL, it is crucial to take steps to control it. The presence of high cholesterol is a silent illness, meaning that there aren’t any signs or symptoms, meaning you might not even be aware of it. If you do have any other factors that increase your risk of heart attack, for instance an ancestor with a medical history with heart diseases and high blood pressure as well as smoking, you might have to act to lower your cholesterol levels even if the level is lower than 200 mg/dL.
Management of the High Cholesterol by Medication
There are a variety of treatments available to control high cholesterol levels, such as statins as well as bile acid sequestrants Niacin, and many more. These drugs work by reducing the level of cholesterol present in bloodstreams which helps lower the risk of developing heart disease. Your physician can assist you decide if a particular medication is appropriate for you, and also which one is the best one for your needs.
Managing High Cholesterol Without Medication
In addition to medications There are a variety of lifestyle modifications that can assist in reducing cholesterol levels. Examples include:
- A healthy diet A diet that is that is low in trans and saturated fats and a high intake of fiber can reduce cholesterol levels.
- Regular exercise is a great way in lowering cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of developing heart diseases.
- Losing weight If you’re overweight, or obese, losing weight may aid in lowering cholesterol levels.
- Quitting smoking is one of the main risk factors for heart disease. stopping smoking can lower cholesterol levels and the risk of developing heart disease.
Risk Factors to Take into Account when using Medications
The cholesterol-lowering medicines such as statins are effective in reducing high cholesterol levels and lowering the risk of developing heart diseases However, they also can cause adverse consequences. The most common side effects associated with statins are muscle pain, digestive issues and damage to the liver. In addition, statins can be a problem when combined with different medications which is why it’s essential to discuss all medicines with a physician prior to starting an statin.
In a few instances the statins or other cholesterol-lowering medications can lead to more serious adverse effects, like the rhabdomyolysis (a condition where muscles cells are destroyed and release a potentially harmful drug into the circulation of blood) or myopathy (a condition that causes muscles weaken and pain can develop).
It’s also important to understand that cholesterol-lowering medications do not tackle the root of high cholesterol. It often is a result of factors in the lifestyle, like a diet rich in trans and saturated fats, insufficient physical activity, or being overweight or overweight. Although these medications can assist in lowering blood cholesterol levels, they are essential to implement lifestyle changes to lower cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease.
Although cholesterol-lowering medicines are effective in reducing high cholesterol and lowering the risk of developing heart diseases but it is essential that you are aware of possible risks and adverse effects, and discuss all alternatives with your physician prior to taking a drug. By implementing lifestyle changes along with your physician to determine the best method of managing your high cholesterol and ensure the health of your heart.
In Conclusion
A high level of cholesterol is a major risk of heart disease, however, it’s a manageable disease. If you combine the right medications and lifestyle modifications you can reduce your cholesterol levels and decrease the chance of suffering from heart disease. If you suffer from high cholesterol, it’s crucial to act to control it and consult with your physician to figure out the best treatment for you. If you take proper care about your cardiovascular health you will enjoy a longer, healthier and happier life.