High cholesterol is one of the major controllable risk factors for coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Excess cholesterol can form plaque between layers of artery walls, making it harder for your heart to circulate blood. Plaque can break open and cause blood clots. If a clot blocks an artery that feeds the brain, it causes a stroke. If it blocks an artery that feeds the heart, it causes a heart attack.
You often hear of “good” and “bad” cholesterol and may wonder what does that mean. LDL is the “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque in your blood stream. HDL is the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL from the blood stream. It is important to know your levels of cholesterol to help you make healthy life choices.
Eating foods with saturated fat, trans fat, and a family history may put you at risk for high cholesterol. Sometimes a lifestyle change is not enough for those who are genetically at risk for high cholesterol. It is important to talk with your doctor about your levels to keep control of your risk.
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This blog post is approved by Dr. Garcia, Interventional Cardiologist. Information source: American Heart Association.