Dangers of High Cholesterol – FAQs
Answering your questions is important to us. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for among the FAQs below, feel free to contact us at Low T Center for more information.
What is cholesterol?
The waxy substance known as cholesterol is made by your liver. You need cholesterol, but high levels of the wrong type of cholesterol can be dangerous to your health.
What is the difference in LDL and HDL cholesterol?
Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is sometimes known as the “bad” cholesterol while high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is sometimes called the “good” cholesterol. LDL cholesterol can clog your arteries. This leads to some of the main risks of high cholesterol, the possibility of a heart attack or a stroke. HDL can lower the amount of LDL cholesterol in your bloodstream.
What causes high cholesterol?
High levels of LDL cholesterol can be caused by an unhealthy diet and not getting enough exercise. However, cholesterol levels may also be linked to genetics for some people. You can have high cholesterol despite eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. Your LDL cholesterol level may also rise as you get older.
What are the dangers of high cholesterol?
When your LDL cholesterol level is high, your arteries may become clogged. This makes it more difficult for blood and oxygen to reach your heart. Over time, this can raise your risk of having a heart attack or a stroke.
What are the symptoms of high cholesterol?
There are no symptoms associated with high cholesterol. You need a blood test to determine your cholesterol levels.
How do you treat high cholesterol?
High cholesterol treatment may involve lifestyle changes, or it might require medication. At Low T Center, we may talk to you about how to eat a diet that will raise the levels of “good” cholesterol and lower the “bad” cholesterol levels in your body. Exercise can also help. However, in some cases, this might not be sufficient, or your cholesterol levels may not be affected by your lifestyle at all. You may need statins or other medication to manage your cholesterol.
When should I get my cholesterol levels checked?
You can get your cholesterol levels checked at a men’s healthcare clinic. At Low T Center, we’ll check your cholesterol levels as part of an overall health assessment and arrange for high cholesterol treatment if necessary. We’ll talk to you about how often you should get your levels checked based on your age, your health and other factors.
What is the test for high cholesterol?
We check your cholesterol levels with a test that is part of our overall blood panel testing.
If you have not had a health assessment or had your cholesterol levels checked for a while, contact us at Low T Center. You can make an appointment online. We’ll work with you to develop a high cholesterol treatment plan that you need in order to improve your health and start feeling better.