Cholesterol Check: Protect Your Heart Before It’s Too Late

 

By Shreema Basnet, M.D.
Internal Medicine, Resident

 

High cholesterol is one of the most common risk factors for heart disease, yet it’s also one of the most preventable and manageable.

 

There Are Two Main Types:
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): “Bad” cholesterol – Can build up in artery walls and form plaque.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): “Good” cholesterol – Helps remove LDL from the bloodstream.

 

Why Cholesterol Matters
High LDL cholesterol often has no symptoms, which is why it’s known as a “silent threat.” Over time, cholesterol buildup (plaque) can narrow or block arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart, brain, and other organs.

 

High cholesterol is a leading contributor to:

• Heart disease (coronary heart disease, heart attack)
• Stroke
• Peripheral artery disease
• Hypertension
• Chronic kidney disease
• Xanthomas (fatty deposits that form under the skin)

 

Know Your Numbers!
A simple blood test called a lipid panel can check your cholesterol levels.
Ideal levels are:

• Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL
• LDL (bad cholesterol): Less than 100 mg/dL
• HDL (good cholesterol): 60 mg/dL or higher
• Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL

 

Ways to Lower Cholesterol Naturally:

• Eat heart-healthy foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, legumes)
• Avoid fats and refined carbs (red meat, butter, white bread, sugary drinks)
• Aim for 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week
• Quit smoking
• Cut down on alcohol use
• Lose excess weight
• Manage stress (yoga/meditation)

 

When Lifestyle Isn’t Enough!
Sometimes, despite maintaining healthy habits, cholesterol levels can remain high. In these cases, you may need prescription medications, such as statins, to help control it.

If it’s been more than a year since your last cholesterol check, contact your primary care provider to schedule one today.

 

To learn more about the Lower Bucks Hospital Residency Program, visit Lower Bucks Hospital Residency Program https://lowerbuckshosp.com/our-services/medical-education/ .