At some point, you will need primary care services to tend to your health needs and those of a loved one. A family doctor has the knowledge and training to address a wide range of health issues. One of the most common challenges people face is dealing with high cholesterol. The effects of this condition can be serious and lead to life-threatening problems. Fortunately, your doctor can take you through the necessary steps and restore you to good long-term health.
Most people have probably heard of cholesterol. However, many people do not understand what it is or what purpose it serves. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that builds healthy cells. But too much cholesterol in the body can put a person at risk of having a heart attack. Rising cholesterol levels will lead to a buildup of fatty deposits in the blood vessels. Over time, these deposits can restrict blood flow and even break and cause a heart attack.
Unhealthy habits can contribute to high levels of cholesterol. These include a poor diet of too much saturated fats and trans fats. A lack of exercise can also be a factor. Also, people who are obese and have a body-mass index of 30 or above are more likely to have high cholesterol. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to high cholesterol. Anyone who falls into these categories should see a primary care doctor right away.
One of the challenges of having high cholesterol is that there are no symptoms. A person will not know they have it unless a doctor diagnoses it from a blood test. It is important to have regular screenings to check cholesterol levels. This should start as early as age 9 or 10. Men ages 45 to 65 should have a screening every two years. Annual tests should occur for men and women over age 65.
Primary care professionals will not only treat patients with high cholesterol but educate them as well. The first step is prevention. The doctor will advise patients to eat a diet low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The doctor will also encourage at-risk patients to lose weight and stop smoking. Cutting back on the use of animal fats will also keep cholesterol levels low.
Primary care is a person’s first step in managing and overcoming risky cholesterol levels. The doctor may prescribe statins, which cause the liver to remove cholesterol from the blood. Other drugs such as bempedoic acid and PCSK9 inhibitors can also effectively lower levels. Diet and exercise can also help a person get cholesterol under control.
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Though you cannot tell whether you have high cholesterol, the effects can be serious. With a visit to your primary care doctor, you can keep these numbers low. Follow your doctor’s advice and be mindful of these guidelines. You can then avoid health problems such as a heart attack.
Request an appointment or call Orange County House Calls at 949-204-1334 for an appointment in our Aliso Viejo office.
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