High Cholesterol FAQ
What is high cholesterol?
High cholesterol means having too much cholesterol in your blood. It can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
What are the symptoms of high cholesterol?
High cholesterol doesn't cause symptoms. In most cases, it's detected through a blood test.
How is high cholesterol diagnosed?
A convenient blood test, known as a lipoprotein profile, is usually done to measure cholesterol levels.
What are the lifestyle changes to control high cholesterol?
Lifestyle changes include eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight.
When are medicines for high cholesterol necessary?
Drugs are prescribed when lifestyle changes alone aren't enough to lower cholesterol to a healthy level.
What are statins?
Statins are a common type of medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
Can high cholesterol be controld without medication?
In some cases, lifestyle changes may be enough to lower cholesterol for certain individuals.
What is the role of diet in managing high cholesterol?
A heart-balanced diet involves eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Side Effects to Be Aware Of — What are the potential side effects of cholesterol-lowering medications
Common adverse effects include muscle pain, digestive issues, and an increased risk of diabetes.
How long does it take for cholesterol-lowering medications to work?
The effects of medications can vary, but they often start to show results within weeks to months.
Are there natural remedies to help lower cholesterol?
Certain supplements, such as plant sterols, soluble fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, may have some cholesterol-lowering effects.
What are the risk factors for high cholesterol?
Risk factors include an unbalanced diet, lack of exercise, smoking, obesity, and genetic predisposition.
Can high cholesterol be inherited?
Indeed, genetics can play a role in high cholesterol, known as familial hypercholesterolemia.
Is it possible to have low cholesterol levels that are too low?
Extremely low levels of cholesterol may increase the risk of certain health issues, such as depression.
How often should cholesterol levels be checked?
For most adults, cholesterol levels should be checked at least once every 5 years.
Information provided by Emily Richardson. Reviewed by Mr. Matthew Liew