High Cholesterol

What Is High Cholesterol

There is a lot of conversation around the topic of high cholesterol, but what is cholesterol? Cholesterol is a fat, also called a lipid, that your body needs to work properly. It’s crucial in the manufacture of hormones and vitamin D. However, too much cholesterol, especially when it comes from unhealthy food choices, can clog blood vessels and lead to heart attack or stroke.  The two types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol to and from cells are low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, and high-density lipoprotein, or HDL. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), LDL cholesterol is considered the “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque. HDL cholesterol is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 71 million American adults (33.5%) have high “bad” (LDL) cholesterol, and only half seek treatment.

What Causes High Cholesterol

Risk Factors For High Cholesterol

Diagnosing High Cholesterol

Symptoms of High Cholesterol

Prognosis

Living With High Cholesterol

Screening

Prevention

Medication And Treatment

Complementary and Alternative Treatment

Care Guide

When To Contact A Doctor

Questions For Your Doctor

Questions For A Doctor

Resources