High cholesterol often develops silently but can significantly increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. Managing cholesterol early with proper guidance can prevent long-term complications and keep your heart healthy.
Doctor’s Perspective:
“At Atharva Health Care Clinic, I focus on helping patients balance lifestyle modifications with appropriate treatment so that cholesterol levels remain under control and future risks are minimized.” – Dr. Pravin Shinde
Causes / Symptoms / Understanding
- Causes: Unhealthy diet (fried foods, excess red meat), lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, alcohol, genetics, and certain medical conditions like diabetes.
- Symptoms: High cholesterol usually has no obvious symptoms, making regular check-ups essential.
- Risks: Can lead to atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries), heart attack, or stroke if untreated.
Non-Surgical or Lifestyle Care
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Limit fried foods, trans fats, and sugary items.
- Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days.
- Maintain a healthy weight and waistline.
- Quit smoking and moderate alcohol consumption.
- Regular cholesterol screenings as advised by the doctor.
Treatment / Medical Options
- Medication: Statins and other cholesterol-lowering drugs if lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient.
- Regular Monitoring: Blood tests to track LDL (“bad”), HDL (“good”), and triglyceride levels.
- Combined Approach: Lifestyle adjustments paired with treatment for long-term benefits.
Comparative View
- Lifestyle Changes Only: Effective for borderline or mildly raised cholesterol.
- Medication + Lifestyle: Recommended for patients with high cholesterol or additional risk factors like hypertension and diabetes.
FAQs
- 1. Can cholesterol be reduced naturally without medication?
Yes, mild cases can often be controlled with a healthy diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. - 2. How often should cholesterol levels be checked?
Every 1–2 years for healthy adults, and more frequently if you have risk factors. - 3. Is high cholesterol always dangerous?
Not immediately, but uncontrolled cholesterol increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. - 4. Can children also have high cholesterol?
Yes, especially if there’s a family history of high cholesterol or obesity.
Closing CTA
If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels, visit Atharva Health Care Clinic, Gokhalenagar, Pune. Dr. Pravin Shinde offers comprehensive care, combining lifestyle guidance and medical treatment to help patients maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
About Doctor
Dr. Pravin Shinde is a trusted General Practitioner at Atharva Health Care Clinic, Gokhalenagar, Pune. He provides holistic care for common health issues including diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol management, infections, and allergies. With a patient-focused approach, he emphasizes preventive care and long-term wellness.
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