High Cholesterol

Harmony Health MD

Primary Care Physician located in Glendale, CA

Though high cholesterol can be dangerous, in most cases, it’s preventable, reversible, and treatable. At Harmony Health MD in Glendale, California, physicians use a wide range of medical and lifestyle treatment strategies to help patients lower their cholesterol levels and lead healthier lives. To get started, book an appointment today by calling or scheduling online.

High Cholesterol Q & A

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a substance that's present in your blood lipids or fats. In a healthy person, cholesterol plays a vital role in helping your body build functioning cells. However, too much cholesterol can lead to fatty deposits inside your blood vessels, which prevent the normal flow of blood through your veins.

There are two different types of cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is “bad” cholesterol, as it can build up inside your arteries and put you at risk for health problems. The “good” cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), helps transport excess cholesterol back to your liver to be processed and eliminated.

What causes high cholesterol?

High cholesterol is caused by a number of different factors, many of them over which you have control.

Diet plays a significant role in cholesterol levels, as eating foods that are fatty and processed can raise cholesterol levels. If you're inactive or obese, too, this can raise your risk for high cholesterol.

Other factors that might contribute to high cholesterol include smoking, having diabetes, or having a large waist circumference.

How is high cholesterol treated?

At Harmony Health MD, patient education and awareness are a key part of getting and staying healthy.

Though medication may play a role in the treatment of high cholesterol, it’s essential to approach healing from a holistic perspective. Your physician can conduct cholesterol testing to determine what steps need to be taken to reduce your risk for health complications.

Since your lifestyle plays a significant role in healthy cholesterol levels, you and your physician work together to create a plan that supports all areas of your health, including your metabolism, your blood sugar, your immune system, sleep patterns, stress levels, exercise habits, diet, and more.

The goal is to cure the underlying problem, not just to mask your symptoms. With comprehensive education, tools, and resources, your health plan is tailored to meet your needs and to empower you to make healthy choices.

What results can I expect?

Lowering high cholesterol levels takes time, but your power lies in your ability to follow your physician’s treatment plan and make the necessary lifestyle changes.

As your cholesterol levels decline, you may not immediately feel different. But rest assured that you are taking critical steps to protect your long-term health and avoid severe conditions, like heart disease or stroke.

To learn more about high cholesterol treatment and get started today, book an appointment with Harmony Health MD.