High Cholesterol Treatment in Huntsville, TX,
Tens of millions of American adults have high cholesterol, a condition that significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Because high cholesterol causes no noticeable symptoms, many people don’t know they have it. At Nabeel Khan, MD, board-certified internal medicine physician Dr. Nabeel Khan and his team offer thorough testing to diagnose high cholesterol and personalized treatment plans to lower your levels and reduce your risk of heart disease. Call (936) 291-8205 or schedule a consultation online if you’re concerned about your cholesterol.
Book OnlineWhat Is High Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made by your liver. Your body uses cholesterol to build new cells, produce certain hormones, and make vitamin D. Cholesterol travels through your bloodstream in particles called lipoproteins. The two main types are:
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Often called “bad” cholesterol, LDL carries cholesterol to the tissues that need it. Too much LDL can build up in the walls of your arteries.
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL): Often called “good” cholesterol, HDL collects excess cholesterol and carries it back to your liver for removal.
High cholesterol occurs when you have too much LDL cholesterol, not enough HDL cholesterol, or both. Your doctor may also check your triglycerides, another type of blood fat that can raise your cardiovascular risk.
Over time, excess cholesterol forms fatty deposits, or plaque, inside your blood vessels. This leads to atherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis restricts blood flow and can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
What Causes High Cholesterol?
Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. While some people are genetically inclined to overproduce cholesterol, a condition called familial hypercholesterolemia, high cholesterol is most often influenced by diet and lifestyle. Common contributing factors include:
- A diet high in saturated and trans fats
- Obesity
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol use
- Diabetes
- An underactive thyroid
Your risk of high cholesterol also increases with age, as changes in your body chemistry can affect how efficiently your liver removes excess cholesterol from your blood.
How Is High Cholesterol Diagnosed?
High cholesterol doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms, so the only way to know your levels is through a blood test called a lipid panel. This test measures your total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
Dr. Khan recommends regular cholesterol screenings as part of your annual physical exam. You may be asked to fast for several hours before your blood draw. For your convenience, lab services are available in our building. Identifying elevated cholesterol early allows Dr. Khan and his team to help you reduce your risk of potentially dangerous complications.
How Is High Cholesterol Treated?
The first step in treating high cholesterol is making healthy lifestyle changes. Dr. Khan works with you to create a practical plan that may include:
- Reducing foods high in saturated fat, such as red meat and full-fat dairy products
- Eating more fiber-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans
- Choosing healthy fats, such as those found in fish, nuts, and olive oil
- Adding regular physical activity to your daily routine
- Losing excess weight
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
If lifestyle changes alone don’t bring your cholesterol into a healthy range, Dr. Khan may prescribe medications such as statins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, bile acid-binding resins, or PCSK9 inhibitors. Many patients benefit from a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Follow-up blood tests help track your progress and guide any adjustments to your treatment.
Protect Your Heart Health in Huntsville, TX,
Managing your cholesterol is one of the most effective ways to lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. Because high cholesterol often occurs alongside other conditions, we take a whole-person approach to your cardiovascular health. Visit our internal medicine services page to learn about the other conditions we treat.
If you’re due for a physical and blood work or have concerns about your cholesterol levels, call Nabeel Khan, MD at (936) 291-8205 or request an appointment online today.
High Cholesterol FAQs
What is a healthy cholesterol level?
For most adults, a total cholesterol level below 200 mg/dL is considered desirable. Healthy targets for LDL, HDL, and triglycerides vary based on your overall cardiovascular risk, and Dr. Khan can explain what your numbers mean for you.
Does high cholesterol cause symptoms?
No. High cholesterol usually causes no symptoms, which is why regular blood testing is the only reliable way to know your levels.
What is the difference between LDL and HDL cholesterol?
LDL is often called bad cholesterol because it can build up in your arteries. HDL is known as good cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from your bloodstream.
How often should I have my cholesterol checked?
Most adults should have their cholesterol checked regularly as part of routine physical exams. If you have high cholesterol or other risk factors, Dr. Khan may recommend more frequent testing.
Do I need to fast before a cholesterol test?
Some cholesterol tests require fasting for several hours beforehand. Our team will let you know whether you need to fast before your blood work.
Can I lower my cholesterol without medication?
Many people can lower their cholesterol by eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, losing weight, and quitting smoking. Some people will also need medication to reach healthy levels.
What medications treat high cholesterol?
Common cholesterol medications include statins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, bile acid-binding resins, and PCSK9 inhibitors. Dr. Khan will recommend the best option for your health needs.