Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance found in the blood that helps your body build cells and make hormones. However, too much of the wrong type can increase your risk of serious health issues like heart disease and stroke.
Heena Shyamani, MD, and the team at Shah Medical Center specialize in managing chronic conditions like high cholesterol. We offer comprehensive in-office screenings and effective treatment strategies to help you keep your numbers within a healthy range.
While most people have heard the terms HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) in reference to cholesterol, many are unsure how they differ or why both numbers matter. Let’s take a look at the specific roles of HDL and LDL cholesterol and how they affect your cardiovascular system.
A standard cholesterol screening — also called a lipid panel — measures the amount of fats, or lipids, circulating in your bloodstream at the time of your blood draw. In addition to your total cholesterol level, your results show several specific numbers that each impact your heart health differently:
This is the “bad” type of cholesterol that can accumulate in arterial walls, forming fatty deposits known as plaque. Over time, this buildup causes the arteries to narrow and thicken, a process called atherosclerosis, restricting your circulation.
Your report also includes your very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) level, another harmful type of cholesterol that contributes to plaque formation. High levels of LDL and VLDL can significantly increase your risk of heart disease.
HDL, or “good” cholesterol, helps prevent plaque from forming in your blood vessels. It travels through the bloodstream, picking up excess cholesterol from arterial walls and returning it to the liver for filtration and elimination from your body. A higher number here is generally a sign of a healthy cardiovascular system.
Triglycerides are a specific type of fat that your body uses to store unused calories for future energy. Though they provide necessary fuel, an excess can lead to health complications — especially alongside high LDL and VLDL and low HDL levels.
For most people, a healthy goal is to keep their total cholesterol below 200 mg/dL and their LDL below 100 mg/dL. However, these targets may differ based on your age, family history, and overall cardiovascular health.
Here’s what you can do to get your numbers back within a healthy range:
But lifestyle adjustments alone aren’t always enough to overcome genetics or other health factors. If your numbers remain high after these changes, we can discuss whether a statin or another medication may be a good addition to your plan.
High cholesterol typically develops without noticeable symptoms, so regular screenings are the only way to understand your cardiovascular risk. Whether you need a baseline test or help managing high levels, our team is here to provide the guidance you need for a heart-healthy future.
To schedule your next cholesterol screening at Shah Medical Center in Elgin, Illinois, contact our friendly office staff or book an appointment online today.
