High cholesterol levels, a common medical condition, occur when there is an excess of cholesterol in the blood. Elevated cholesterol levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol, can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. More about cholesterol types in our article “Cholesterol in heart health“.
The treatment of high cholesterol typically involves lifestyle modifications, medications, and regular monitoring to assess the response to the aforementioned. Healthy lifestyle choices include: balanced diet low in saturated fats, staying active, smoking cessation and limiting alcohol intake
In terms of medications used in management of high cholesterol, there are four main types. Firstly, statins (atorvastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin and simvastatin) overwhelmingly dominate mainstream treatment options for high cholesterol. Secondly, ezetimibe is also sometimes used and it works by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine. In addition to this, there are newer injectable agents, called PCSK9 inhibitors available now. Finally other drugs such as fibrates, niacin, and bile acid sequestrants can also be used alone or in combination with statins.
Managing high cholesterol levels is often a long term commitment to improving and modifying life style choices. In a vast majority of patients we see a reduction in “bad” cholesterol levels with implementing of low fat and vegetable rich diet. We help our patients to achieve this goal by longer consultation time, answering questions and addressing all possible obstacles.
Importantly regular monitoring of patients` cholesterol levels is needed to assess treatment effectiveness, adjust medications as needed, and prevent complications. Full lipid profile assessment, which include total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and Triglycerides levels can be arranged via our clinics.
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Dr Bart Olechowski is an experienced Consultant Interventional Cardiologist based in Hampshire, UK. As a specialist in his field, Dr Olechowski leads with expertise, offering premier cardiovascular care.
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