Cholesterol is the fatty and waxy substance present in the blood. Cholesterol is required to build healthy blood cells in the blood. But, higher cholesterol can increase the risk of heart diseases. High cholesterol occurs when the levels of fatty substances increase in the blood.
When the body has high cholesterol, fatty deposits will develop in the walls of blood vessels. As the fatty deposits grow, it makes it difficult for the blood to flow through the arteries. In some cases, even the fatty deposits could break and lead to a blood clot. This clot can eventually cause a heart stroke or heart attack.
Causes of High Cholesterol
Although the liver produces cholesterol, the food we take also produces cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is carried by the blood and is attached to proteins. The combination of protein and cholesterol is called lipoprotein. Lipoproteins are of two types namely Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
HDL is good cholesterol. It carries excess cholesterol back to the liver and reduces blood levels of cholesterol. LDL is bad cholesterol. If the body has higher amounts of LDL, it builds up in the walls of arteries and makes the blood flow difficult. If high cholesterol is not treated well, it causes serious heart diseases.
Dr. Hari Kiran is one of the reputed doctors in Hyderabad who specialized in helping patients with high cholesterol. He has hundreds of satisfied patients who got rid of high cholesterol levels.
The causes of high cholesterol include:
- Eating fatty food such as junk food
- Not exercising and being inactive
- Obesity
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Health conditions such as AIDS, kidney disease, diabetes and hypothyroidism
- Medications used for acne, cancer, high BP, organ transplantation.
Causes such as inactivity, improper diet, obesity can be controlled by taking proper prevention steps. However, other uncontrollable causes such as genetic makeup can make it difficult for your body to remove bad cholesterol or LDL from the blood.
Symptoms of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol does not show any symptoms. Many people do not discover that they have high cholesterol until it causes serious health issues.
The only way to know if you have high cholesterol is through a blood test. It is recommended to have your cholesterol levels checked at least once in a year. Your doctor uses a lipid panel to determine the total cholesterol levels in your blood including HDL, LDL and triglycerides. If the result shows high levels of total cholesterol or high LDL cholesterol, your doctor will guide you to reduce them.
Treatment for High Cholesterol
High cholesterol can be controlled by making changes in your lifestyle. Your doctor would recommend changing your diet and practicing regular exercise. Lifestyle changes include:
- Avoiding drinking and smoking
- Reducing the intake of high cholesterol food
- Eating fiber rich foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables
- Avoiding junk food
- Eating fish that can help lower LDL levels
- Lose weight and maintain a healthy weight
Your doctor may also suggest certain medications based on various factors such as age, health conditions, risk factors, etc. Your doctor may recommend medication to prevent your liver from producing high cholesterol.
Having Problems with High Cholesterol? Meet Dr. Hari Kiran
If you are suffering from any issues such as stroke due to high cholesterol, meet Dr. Hari Kiran. He is an experienced cardiologist in Hyderabad and has vast knowledge in treating heart issues. He can suggest a personalised treatment method for you. Call us to book your appointment today.
