Cholesterol Treatment in Plano, TX

Cholesterol is an essential substance that is found in every cell of the body. It is produced naturally by the liver but can also come from different foods we eat. Cholesterol is transported by special particles called lipoproteins. There are two types of lipoproteins: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). When cholesterol is carried by LDL, it is known as bad cholesterol because it can stick to the lining of arteries and build up deposits that can block blood flow. Cholesterol that is present in HDL is called good because it picks up excess cholesterol and takes it back to the liver. Maintaining proper levels of cholesterol is essential for your overall health. If too much bad cholesterol is present, it can lead to a wide variety of serious health conditions, such as narrowing of the arteries, heart diseases, and stroke. Call Nest Family Medicine in Plano, TX to schedule an appointment with family practitioner Dr. Priti Ranjan today to check your cholesterol.

Cholesterol is evaluated with a simple blood test. Getting routine cholesterol screenings can save your life because high or bad cholesterol doesn't present any external symptoms. This is why bad cholesterol is commonly known as a "silent" disease. When you visit Nest Family Medicine, we'll perform a complete lipid panel to determine your cholesterol levels. From there, we can go over your results and teach you how to check your cholesterol at home so you can continue to monitor and improve your levels.

High cholesterol is diagnosed with a simple lipid panel blood test. This test measures your total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. LDL cholesterol is what contributes to plaque formation and blockages in arteries. HDL cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from the arterial walls. A high triglyceride level is also a risk factor for heart disease. Nest Family Medicine can provide more details about your lipid panel results and what they mean for your health.

High cholesterol is almost always caused by an unhealthy diet that is high in fat. However, other factors that can contribute to the development of high cholesterol include genetics, obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. If your screening reveals high cholesterol levels, Dr. Ranjan will go over different treatment options that can help manage your condition. Traditionally, high cholesterol is treated by making certain lifestyle adjustments, like cutting down on fatty foods, and prescription medication.

How can I lower my cholesterol?

Many people are concerned about high levels of cholesterol. The goal is to reduce your bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase your good (HDL) cholesterol. You can do this by changing your diet, exercising regularly, and meeting your weight loss goals. Nest Family Medicine can help you make healthy choices and prescribe medications when needed.

How often should I have my cholesterol levels tested?

The current recommendations are that you would have your cholesterol levels tested every five years after the age of 20. If your cholesterol is found to be high, follow-up tests should be done more frequently, depending on your risk factors. According to the American Heart Association, the risk factors for having high cholesterol include age, weight, genetics, and lifestyle factors like smoking.

What are foods should I avoid if I have high cholesterol?

High cholesterol can be lowered with the help of a heart-healthy diet. Start by avoiding foods high in saturated fats. Limit red meat, butter, and full-fat dairy products while increasing your intake of lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains. Nest Family Medicine may make custom recommendations if you have certain health conditions like diabetes.

If you have a family history of high cholesterol or have never had your levels checked, call Nest Family Medicine in Plano, TX to schedule a cholesterol screening today. Family practitioner Dr. Priti Ranjan can perform an easy blood test to determine if any changes need to be made with your diet or if prescription medication is necessary. Our office accepts a wide variety of insurance providers and Medicare.