High cholesterol
What is High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol is a condition where there is too much cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body needs to build healthy cells, but too much of it can be harmful. High cholesterol does not have any symptoms, so it is important to get your cholesterol levels checked regularly by a doctor.
Diagnosing High Cholesterol
To diagnose high cholesterol, your doctor will perform a blood test called a lipid panel. This test measures the levels of different types of cholesterol in your blood. The two main types of cholesterol are LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). LDL cholesterol is often called "bad" cholesterol because it can build up in your arteries and cause blockages.
Treating High Cholesterol
If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes and/or medication to help lower your cholesterol levels. Lifestyle changes may include eating a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats, exercising regularly, losing weight if needed, and quitting smoking. Medications called statins may also be prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels.
Preventing High Cholesterol
There are several preventive measures you can take to keep your cholesterol levels in check. Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help prevent high cholesterol. Avoiding foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods and processed snacks, is also important. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking are other ways to prevent high cholesterol.
What is High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol is a condition where there is too much cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body needs to build healthy cells, but too much of it can be harmful. High cholesterol does not have any symptoms, so it is important to get your cholesterol levels checked regularly by a doctor.
Diagnosing High Cholesterol
To diagnose high cholesterol, your doctor will perform a blood test called a lipid panel. This test measures the levels of different types of cholesterol in your blood. The two main types of cholesterol are LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). LDL cholesterol is often called "bad" cholesterol because it can build up in your arteries and cause blockages.
Treating High Cholesterol
If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes and/or medication to help lower your cholesterol levels. Lifestyle changes may include eating a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats, exercising regularly, losing weight if needed, and quitting smoking. Medications called statins may also be prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels.
Preventing High Cholesterol
There are several preventive measures you can take to keep your cholesterol levels in check. Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help prevent high cholesterol. Avoiding foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods and processed snacks, is also important. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking are other ways to prevent high cholesterol.
Symptom list:
High cholesterol
Financial support
Not all of us are able to afford the treatment we need. Search your insurance coverage, or check out what charities may be able to offer you for your condition.
p.s. Just because you have insurance, that doesn't mean that charities or other organizations are not able to support you too.
Emotional support
Whether it's a free counseling session or to find someone with a similar diagnosis, these Germie approved charities might be able to help. Click to explore their offerings!