High Cholesterol in Nashville, IN

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that the body uses to create and maintain healthy cell function. It comes in two varieties — HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Unfortunately, too much HDL cholesterol or too little LDL cholesterol can cause fatty clogs to form in the arteries, leading to serious conditions, including a heart attack. For Nashville, IN residents, professional medical support is often necessary to manage cholesterol levels. At Blue Elk Family Clinic, Dr. Larry Sanchez treats unhealthy cholesterol levels through dietary counseling, lifestyle adjustment recommendations, and medication.

Living a sedentary lifestyle or having a diet high in unhealthy fats can be major contributors to cholesterol problems. Other times, genetics can be the culprit. Some people's bodies simply produce less LDL cholesterol or eliminate HDL cholesterol more slowly. Often, patients can have high HDL cholesterol or low LDL cholesterol and be completely unaware. Symptoms do not typically manifest until they are severe. For this reason, Dr. Sanchez will initially request a blood panel to examine chemical compositions in your system, which can indicate where your cholesterol levels are at. Then, cholesterol problems can be treated by implementing a personalized management system, including lifestyle changes, diet, and prescription medications if necessary. It is important that patients follow a management plan recommended by a qualified medical professional.

Is high cholesterol common?

Yes, it is. According to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) statistics, about 40% of adults in the U.S. have high cholesterol.

What are the risk factors for having high cholesterol?

The most common risk factors for high cholesterol include:

• Age (over 40)
• Genetics (family history)
• Being a post-menopausal woman
• Poor diet high in saturated fats
• Lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking
• Being overweight or obese
• Diabetes

What are the best ways to manage high cholesterol?

The most effective ways to combat high cholesterol include lifestyle changes, like:

• Getting regular, daily exercise
• Eating a healthier diet with less trans fats, saturated fats, and processed sugars
• Losing weight
• Quitting smoking
• Including more fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, etc.) and vegetables in your diet
• Drinking the daily recommended amount of water
• Medications (if prescribed by your doctor)

At Blue Elk Family Clinic, our experienced team can diagnose cholesterol problems, like high HDL cholesterol, and tailor a treatment plan suitable for you. When left untreated, high cholesterol could lead to heart disease. To understand more about your cardiovascular health and catch problems before they arise, schedule an appointment with Dr. Larry Sanchez in Nashville, IN today.