High cholesterol, also known as hypercholesterolemia, can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and metabolic syndrome. More importantly, certain types of cholesterol within the body are more harmful than others. Unfortunately, these "bad" cholesterols typically increase as total cholesterol increases. Treatment of high cholesterol may include lifestyle modifications, dietary restrictions and prescription medications.
Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol represents many types of lipoproteins and lipids found in the bloodstream. Total cholesterol includes high density lipoproteins (HDL); low density lipoproteins (LDL); and very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). Very low density lipoproteins include triglycerides, which are also commonly reported on a lipid panel.
Lipid Panel Analysis
The total cholesterol value can be obtained from the results of a lipid panel conducted from a sample of blood. In most cases, you will be asked to fast for eight to 10 hours before having blood drawn for a lipid panel. The results of the analysis may not be available for a few days. A lipid panel typically includes values for total cholesterol as well as values for specific types of cholesterol.
Total Cholesterol and the Heart
According to the National Institutes of Health Adult Treatment Panel 3 lipid guidelines, optimal total cholesterol levels should fall below 200 mg/dL. Higher total cholesterol levels often include corresponding increases in low density lipoproteins and triglycerides. Low density lipoproteins and triglycerides can form plaques and clots that clog arteries. When blood flow is restricted in arteries supplying the heart, patients may experience angina or a heart attack. In addition, hypercholesterolemia also increases the risk of pulmonary embolism and stroke.
Total Cholesterol and HDL Ratio
Not all types of cholesterol are considered harmful. Total cholesterol also includes HDL cholesterol, which is though to protect against heart disease. Researchers believe HDL cholesterol protects against heart disease by scavenging lipids in the bloodstream and transporting them back to the liver to be metabolized. In addition, HDL may also remove lipid particles from clots that have started to form in arteries. It becomes beneficial for patients to have a larger portion of total cholesterol in the form of HDL. Simply divide HDL from total cholesterol to obtain the ratio. Smaller ratios indicate that HDL comprises a larger component of total cholesterol, lowering the risk of heart disease. For reference, a ratio of 5 corresponds to average risk of heart disease.
Treatment of High Cholesterol
Lifestyle modifications to lower total cholesterol levels include weight loss, exercise and restricting dietary intake of fatty foods. In addition, prescription medications may be required to lower "bad" cholesterol and increase HDL. Patients should consult a physician with concerns regarding high cholesterol and treatment options.
