A heart attack can be a frightening and debilitating event. In some cases, patients must undergo invasive procedures such as a coronary artery bypass graft to restore blood flow to the heart muscles. Patients at risk for heart attacks should focus on preventive measures such as lowering excessively high cholesterol levels. A reduction in cholesterol levels can be accomplished by adhering to lifestyle changes and cholesterol-lowering medications.
Heart Attacks
A heart attack occurs when a clot, or arterial plaque, obstructs the flow of blood in the coronary arteries. Heart muscle cells and tissues can begin to die as they are deprived of oxygen and blood. As the heart becomes damaged, it may cease to efficiently pump blood to other vital organs, including the brain. A heart attack is a life-threatening event that requires immediate medical intervention. Arterial clots and plaques are formed through a complex process that involves platelets and lipids.
LDL Cholesterol
Low-density lipoproteins, LDL, are commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is the primary cholesterol type that is targeted for reduction in patients at high risk for coronary events. According to the National Institutes of Health Adult Treatment Panel 3 Lipid Guidelines, ATP III, the optimal LDL cholesterol level for patients at risk of heart disease is below 100 mg/dL. The most common medication used to lower LDL cholesterol belongs to a drug class called statins.
Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another type of cholesterol that has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and metabolic disorders. Although most cholesterol medications target both LDL and triglycerides, drugs such as gemfibrozil and fibrates are typically more effective at lowering triglycerides. According to the ATP III lipid guidelines, patients at risk for heart disease should maintain triglyceride levels below 150 mg/dL. Since LDL is a component of total cholesterol, at risk patients are advised to maintain total cholesterol levels below 200 mg/dL.
HDL Cholesterol
Total cholesterol comprises various types of cholesterol found within the body. This also includes high-density lipoproteins, HDL. HDL cholesterol is commonly referred to as "good" cholesterol since it is believed to scavenge lipid particles from the bloodstream and plaques for transport back to the liver for processing and elimination. Patients with an HDL cholesterol level below 40 mg/dL are at greater risk for heart disease. Drugs such as niacin are commonly prescribed for the purpose of increasing HDL cholesterol. Patients with concerns regarding high cholesterol should speak with their physician to determine the best treatment options.
