High Cholesterol
High cholesterol is something detected on routine tests that doesn’t produce easily observable symptoms. Its complications, like a heart attack, are certainly noticeable. Nonetheless, no one has any complaints because they have high cholesterol levels. The condition is either detected on a blood test or when a complication happens.
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At Dr. Sayyed, Burr Ridge, La Grange, Hinsdale, Chicago, we can help you combat high cholesterol levels. We have expert dietitians who know all about the different types of cholesterol and what you need to do to maintain good control of them. Treatment is important for the prevention of complications, even if you feel like you don’t have any complaints regarding your health.
Complications of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol affects different body parts, as we mentioned, but mainly acts through blood vessels. There are two main types of cholesterol: good and bad. Bad cholesterol is LDL, while good cholesterol is HDL.
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If there’s a lot of LDL in a person’s blood, it’ll start hurting their blood vessels, and what is known as atherosclerosis develops. In atherosclerosis, the blood vessels become hardened and less flexible. They also have these plaques, which can break and occlude smaller arteries.
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When a plaque breaks off and occludes another artery, it can mean trouble. It can end up in one of the blood vessels supplying the heart, leading to a heart attack, or one of those supplying the brain leading to a stroke. These are the things we worry about and why we treat high cholesterol levels.
Treatment of High Cholesterol
The treatment of high cholesterol can involve drugs and dietary modifications. At Dr. Sayyed, we can help you handle your high cholesterol and keep it under control by adjusting your diet. Knowing what to eat and what to avoid can make a huge difference.
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Saturated fats like butter and oil are better avoided as they are rich in bad cholesterol. Unsaturated fats like olive oil, on the other hand, are preferred and considered healthy. You should also try to avoid junk food and processed foods.
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Eating as many fruits and vegetables as possible throughout the day is something we recommend. You’ll feel the difference in performing your daily activities when your blood cholesterol is under control.