"High cholesterol is something we see often, especially as patients get older," says James H. Wang, MD, Family Medicine at ARC Bee Cave. "It usually doesn't cause clear symptoms, but it can quietly increase health risks if left untreated."
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance your body needs in small amounts. It moves through the blood as different types of lipid particles:
- LDL ("bad" cholesterol) is a type of fat in the blood that contains the most cholesterol. It can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis).
- HDL ("good" cholesterol) helps to remove cholesterol from the blood. This keeps plaque from building up in your arteries.
When LDL or triglyceride (another form of fat in the blood) levels are too high, cholesterol can form plaque in the arteries. This increases the chance of health problems.
Facts about cholesterol.
What are the potential risks of high cholesterol?
High cholesterol may not cause symptoms, but it can silently damage the body. Over time, plaque buildup increases the chance of:
- Cardiovascular disease: Damage to the heart and arteries
- Artery disease: Narrowing of arteries that reduces blood flow
- High blood pressure: Extra strain on the heart and vessels
- Stroke: Blocked blood flow to the brain
- Diabetes: Combined with high cholesterol, raises risks of serious disease
- Obesity and age: Increase the chance of developing high cholesterol and related health problems
Potential treatment options
Many people see a benefit from changes in diet and lifestyle, such as eating less saturated fat, exercising regularly, and losing weight if needed. When lifestyle changes are not enough, medicine can help:
- Statins: Medicines that lower cholesterol by blocking its production in the liver, reducing LDL ("bad") cholesterol and plaque buildup in the arteries.
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitors: Medicines that lower cholesterol by blocking the intestines from absorbing cholesterol from food.
- Bempedoic acid: A medicine that lowers LDL ("bad") cholesterol by blocking cholesterol production in the liver, often used when statins aren't enough or aren't tolerated.
- Bile acid sequestrants: Medicines that lower cholesterol by binding with bile acids in the intestines, causing the body to use more cholesterol to make new bile.
- PCSK9 inhibitors: Medicines that help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol by blocking a protein that stops the liver from removing cholesterol from the blood.
- Medicines for high triglycerides: Drugs that help lower fat (triglyceride) levels in the blood to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Learn more about cholesterol medicines.
"Managing high cholesterol is absolutely possible," says Dr. Wang. "A combination of diet, exercise, and medicine can help protect your heart and lower your risks."
Talk with your doctor or advanced care clinician (APC) in primary care to find the plan that's right for you.
Make an appointment today
Dr. Wang is accepting new patients ages 12 and older at ARC Bee Cave. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Wang online, through ARC MyChart, or call ARC Bee Cave at 512-676-2500.