The 2 Ways to Treat High Cholesterol

You can lower your high cholesterol with 2 approaches, the naturally way or by modern day medications. It is important to know that by lower the high cholesterol level, we also reduce the risk of running into vascular disease like heart attack, stroke and other related health problems.

In most of the medical treatment of high cholesterol, it is usually targeted at lowering the level of bad cholesterol or LDL cholesterol in the body. But for some, the combination of both lowering the bad cholesterol and increasing the level good cholesterol the HDL cholesterol may be needed. We look at the treatment process in this article.

The first thing that will happened in the process is to determine your cholesterol level. This is done in the doctor office through a simple blood test where your total cholesterol level and cholesterol ratio will be determined. This number will give the doctor an idea how serious the cholesterol problem is and how aggressive the treatment plan should be.

Usually the first thing your doctor will discussed with you, once you know your cholesterol level, is the dietary changes. A diet that comprised of low fats, high fiber like fresh foods, fruits and vegetables will be recommended. This will reduce the intake of the bad fats into your body.

After the dietary recommendation, your doctor will also advise you on your exercise and activities level. Which will help in the increase of good cholesterol and losing weight. Usually a regular exercise routine will be recommended if you don;t already have one.

For people with a history of coronary artery disease, high blood pressure or diabetes, medication will be started right away. As people with such profile are at a higher risk for heart attack and stroke.

Your doctor will likely prescribe statin for people who need immediate medication. Statin has a effect of slowing down the production of cholesterol in the body this helps to reduce the complications that are associated with high cholesterol. There are situation where the medication prescribe are not from the statin family. These will help to prevent or reduce the amount of cholesterol that will be absorbed in your digestive system. If statin is used, do know that there could be possible side effects.

Once you starts the treatment of high cholesterol, periodic check will be done by your doctor to see the progress you are making with the treatment. If you chose diet and exercise to lower cholesterol, these test will indicate if medication is necessary as well. If you are already on medication, then these test will tell if the dose are appropriate.

These routine test and check up is the perfect time to talk to your doctor for any concern that you may have. A good example would be the drastic change in diet, many people may not be able to cope and your doctor may recommend a dietitian to help. Another possibility is that you may suffer from the side effects from the medications, where your doctor may change it. Also if you cannot follow the exercise routine due to health reasons, alternative may be suggested.