In our experience, many people wonder for a long time about their cholesterol levels before having a cholesterol test. They might be worried about the outcome and therefore delay testing. They might have a family history of heart disease or stroke and are concerned because of that. Maybe they’re just aware that their lifestyle isn’t the greatest.
Whatever the reason, this is one plaster we recommend you pull off! Not only is testing for cholesterol very simple and fast but there is a solution, whatever the outcome. It might be small changes to your diet, adding a walk to your day or helping with medication. But the benefits are huge because high cholesterol is known to be a major risk factor in life-changing illnesses and health events.
Let’s start with the basics
High cholesterol is a condition that occurs when there are elevated cholesterol levels in the bloodstream. Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and is essential for the body’s normal functioning. It plays a vital role in forming cell membranes and is required for synthesising hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids. However, excess cholesterol in the blood can lead to serious health problems.
Testing for cholesterol
A total cholesterol level test isn’t very helpful because your total level is made up of several things, some of which are “good” and some of which are “bad”. It’s important to do a test that gives you a full lipid profile to know where you’re at and what action you need to take.
There are two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is known as “bad” cholesterol because it can clog arteries and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. HDL is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and reduces the risk of heart disease.
Is it common, and what causes it?
High cholesterol is a common problem in the UK, affecting millions of adults. It is a major risk factor for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide. High cholesterol can be caused by several factors, including genetics, diet, lifestyle, and underlying medical conditions.
What are the symptoms?
Some of the most common symptoms of high cholesterol include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and sweating. However, many people may not experience any symptoms at all, which is why it is often called a “silent killer.” This is why testing is so important – you might never know you have high cholesterol unless you have a blood test.
What can I do if my test shows high cholesterol?
Fortunately, high cholesterol can be managed through lifestyle changes and medication. Making dietary changes is one of the most effective ways to lower cholesterol levels. A diet low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium and high in fibre, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve overall health.
Exercise is also an essential component of managing high cholesterol. Regular physical activity can help increase HDL cholesterol levels, improve blood flow, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
In addition to lifestyle changes, medication may be necessary to manage high cholesterol. Statins are the most commonly prescribed medication and work by reducing the production of cholesterol in the liver.
In conclusion, high cholesterol is a serious health condition that requires attention and management. With the right combination of lifestyle changes and medication, it is possible to reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
Book our Silver Blood Profile today, which includes a full lipid panel. You can then take your results to your own GP or see one of our doctors for management if needed.
