holesterol helps build the foundation of your cells, but too much can clog your blood vessels. At the office of Saba Shabnam, MD, FAAFP, in Grapevine, Texas, Dr. Shabnam provides individualized care for high cholesterol through dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and medication if you need it. Call Saba Shabnam, MD, FAAFP, today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about high cholesterol.
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in your blood that is vital for cell development. While cholesterol plays an essential role in maintaining your health, too much of it can restrict your blood flow.
The liver creates enough cholesterol to keep your body functioning properly. When you eat food that also contains cholesterol, it can create waxy deposits that cling to your blood vessel walls. The walls start to harden and narrow over time, which slows your blood flow.
Without treatment, high cholesterol can prevent oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart and limbs. Untreated hypertension can lead to stroke, heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease.
High cholesterol has no symptoms. That’s why it’s important to undergo regular testing. Men over the age of 45 and women over 55 should seek testing at least once every two years. After age 65, you should visit the practice of Saba Shabnam, MD, FAAFP, for a cholesterol test every year.
Too much cholesterol can accumulate in your blood vessel walls if you:
High cholesterol tends to run in families. You can reduce your risk of developing high cholesterol through healthy eating and exercise.
There are two types of cholesterol:
LDL causes fatty deposits to build in the arteries (atherosclerosis). Also known as “bad cholesterol,” LDL increases your risk of stroke and heart attack.
Often called the “good cholesterol,” HDL carries LDL away from the arteries and reduces your risk of complications.
Many people with high cholesterol also have high triglycerides. These fat deposits can significantly increase cholesterol buildup in your artery walls.
Managing high cholesterol usually involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. After a comprehensive evaluation, your provider can determine the best medication to treat your condition.
Diet and lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet, exercising, and quitting smoking, can also help lower high cholesterol.
Call the office of Saba Shabnam, MD, FAAFP, today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about high cholesterol.