Cholesterol is a type of fat that exists in our body. It is an important component of cell membranes and other substances. To build healthy cells, our body requires cholesterol. Although not all cholesterol is harmful to our body, high levels of cholesterol can increase risk of heart disease.
High cholesterol can be inherited, but it is more often the result of poor lifestyle choices, making it both preventable and treatable. High cholesterol can be reduced with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and, in some cases, medication.
Cholesterol can be obtained from two different sources. The liver produces all of the cholesterol you require. The rest of the cholesterol in your body is derived from animal products. Dietary cholesterol, for example, is found in meat, poultry, and dairy products.
Types of Cholesterol: - Cholesterol travels through our bloodstream attached to proteins. This protein-cholesterol complex is known as a lipoprotein. There are different kinds of cholesterol depending on what the lipoprotein carries. They are as follows:
High Cholesterol Causes: Obesity and excess weight can also result in elevated LDL levels in the blood. High cholesterol can be caused by genetic factors. Familial hypercholesterolemia is an inherited condition characterised by extremely high LDL levels. Some other major factors that cause high cholesterol include – diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney and liver disorder, increased level of hormones in females due to pregnancy and other conditions, and some drugs like progestin, anabolic steroids, and corticosteroids.
High Cholesterol Disease Symptoms:
A person with high cholesterol levels may not have any symptoms, but routine screening and blood tests can help detect high levels.
A person who does not have their cholesterol levels checked may have a heart attack without warning because they were unaware that they had high cholesterol levels. Regular screenings can help to lower this risk.
High Cholesterol Disease Treatment:
The first line of defense against high cholesterol is to make lifestyle changes such as exercising and eating a healthy diet. However, if you've made these important lifestyle changes and your cholesterol levels still remain high, your doctor may advise you to take medication.
The medication or combination of medications you choose is determined by a variety of factors, including your personal risk factors, age, health, and potential drug side effects.
If you are concerned about your high cholesterol, cardiac problem, or cholesterol specialist doctor, visit Aakash Healthcare which is considered one of the best heart hospitals in Delhi.