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High Cholesterol

High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a lipid - a vital material necessary for the body to build cell walls as well as produce hormones. Other than the cholesterol produced by the liver, we receive cholesterol when we eat animal products. Small amounts of cholesterol are used by the body to meet the needs of production of hormones and Vitamin D. When there is too much cholesterol in the bloodstream, it gets deposited in arteries leading to blockage. This condition is called hypercholesterolemia. High fat diet, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and heredity are factors affecting blood cholesterol levels. Mental stress and age and lifestyle factors also have a bearing on blood cholesterol levels.

LDL or low-density lipoproteins are called 'bad choleterol'. HDL or high-density lipoproteins are beneficial since they aid in clearing excess cholesterol from the blood. Total Blood cholesterol of less than 200 milligrams per decileter of blood is desirable. If the LDL levels are less than 130, you are at risk for heart disease. HDL levels of 40 and above are good for your heart. High cholesterol has a direct bearing on the condition of your heart. High levels of cholesterol can lead to CHD (coronary heart disease). It can result in atherosclerotis and increase the risk of a heart attack.

High cholesterol is noticed during routine blood screening. A lipid profile showing your LDL, HDL and triglyceride levels are indicative of the blood cholesterol status. Triglycerides are a form of fat that is found in the bloodstream. Lifestyle changes are imperative in the control and reduction of high cholesterol. Healthy diet and regular exercise regimen can help in controlling high cholesterol.

Statins are used to treat high cholesterol. These drugs deplete cholesterol levels in the liver. Statins such as atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin and pravastatin are prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. Medication to alter cholesterol profiles such as fibrates, nicotinic acid and cholesterol absorption inhibitors are also used to reduce blood cholesterol. But it is essential to monitor any side effects on the liver.