Cholesterol

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy fat produced in your liver and used to make cell tissue and some hormones. Your body needs cholesterol to function correctly.

If your liver produces more cholesterol than your body needs, it can affect your health and increase your risk of developing coronary artery disease. When evaluating your cholesterol numbers, Dr. Agarwal takes into account your total cholesterol and the difference between your bad and good cholesterol numbers.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)

LDL is called bad cholesterol because it plays a role in contributing to the buildup of plaque along your blood vessel walls. This buildup leads to conditions like coronary artery disease.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL)

HDL is good cholesterol because it removes LDL cholesterol from your bloodstream, lowering your numbers.

Men 35 and older and women 45 and older should have their cholesterol levels checked regularly. You’ll require earlier blood cholesterol testing if you have risk factors for high cholesterol, like a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease.

What causes high cholesterol?

Your cholesterol levels could be high because of your diet. Foods high in saturated fat, including red meat and high-fat dairy foods, increase your liver’s production of cholesterol.

Being overweight, not getting enough physical activity, and smoking also increases your risk of developing high cholesterol. Your high cholesterol can also be a result of your genetics.

What can I expect during a cholesterol evaluation?

Your specialist at Gulf Coast Cardiology Group takes a preventive approach to care. You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come to the office with concerns about high cholesterol. During your exam, your doctor reviews your medical and family histories and lifestyle habits. They then do a physical.

If they have concerns about your heart’s health and function, your doctor will do more diagnostic tests, including a CT or PET scan.

How can I manage my cholesterol levels?

Your doctor at Gulf Coast Cardiology Group develops personalized treatment plans to help manage your cholesterol levels based on the results of your evaluation.

Making lifestyle changes, like eating a healthy diet and exercising, is a good place to start. Your provider might also recommend medication if your levels remain too high.

To get help managing your cholesterol, call the office today or book an appointment online.