If you have ever struggled with your weight or you have a history of heart disease in your family, you have probably heard many times about the dangers of high cholesterol. You know that high cholesterol is bad and that it can affect your heart, but you probably have some questions about what exactly cholesterol is and what its relationship is to your health. Here is everything you need to know.
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is an important substance in your body. This waxy material in your blood helps your body build strong cells. Too much cholesterol, however, can be a problem. An excess can cause fatty deposits to develop in your blood vessels. This can make it difficult for blood to flow through your circulatory system, and these deposits can even break off and form a clot, leading to a stroke or heart attack.
What Is Considered High?
It’s important to understand that there are two types of cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein, LDL, is considered bad because it can build up in your arteries. High-density lipoprotein, HDL, is considered good because it can take extra cholesterol up and deliver it to your liver, cleaning your system. What is considered high changes with age and sex, but most adults should have a total cholesterol of less than 200 mg/dL, with LDL of less than 100 mg/dl, while a total over 240 and LDL over 160 is considered high.
How Do I Know If I Have This Condition?
There are no symptoms of this issue. You will need to schedule a physical or wellness exam with Dr. Kohn at Kohn Medical & Weight Loss and get a blood test. Your screening will include four numbers: Your total cholesterol, your HDL, your LDL, and your triglyceride level, which is also a contributing factor in heart disease when too high.
How Can I Lower My Cholesterol?
While there can be genetic factors in high cholesterol, poor diet and bad lifestyle choices often play a big role. At Kohn Medical & Weight Loss, we will put you on a medical weight loss program to help manage your condition. This will include a diet and exercise program with diet shots to help you quickly, safely and effectively lose weight, along with lifestyle recommendations. Dr. Kohn can also prescribe medication to help regulate your levels if necessary.
Where Can I Get Help With High Cholesterol in Las Vegas?
The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Kohn Medical & Weight Loss will be happy to schedule an appointment for you where Dr. Kohn will examine you for all major potential chronic conditions and risk factors. To get started, all you have to do is submit the form below or call us today at 702-487-6500 to schedule.
