Cholesterol is a soft, waxy fat (lipid) in the blood stream that is found in all of your body's cells. The body needs cholesterol to form cell membranes, some hormones, and vitamin D. Cholesterol is also found in some foods like egg yolks, meats, and dairy products.
High cholesterol may raise your risk for stroke by increasing your risk for heart disease. Plaque build-up in the arteries from high levels of cholesterol also can block blood flow to the brain and cause a stroke.
Because cholesterol does not dissolve in the blood on its own, it must be delivered to and from cells called lipoproteins. The two lipoproteins that have a direct affect on cholesterol levels are low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL).
Due to its artery-clogging properties, LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. LDL carries cholesterol into the blood stream and to tissues where your body can store it. This type of cholesterol can cause plaque build-up, a thick, hard substance that can clog arteries. The plaque can cause a narrowing of the arteries or block them completely, causing a stroke or heart attack.
There are some things you can change to help manage your cholesterol. Eat low-fat foods, especially foods low in saturated fat. Your diet should include vegetables, fruits and lean meats such as chicken and fish.
Adding fiber, including whole grains or dried beans, may help reduce cholesterol. Changing cooking habits to include baking, broiling, steaming, or grilling instead of frying can also help.
People who are active tend to have lower cholesterol. Exercising regularly also seems to slow down or stop fatty deposits from clogging arteries. Your doctor may recommend a program of regular exercise to help lower your cholesterol. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
For best results, you should take part in some aerobic activity several days a week, for 20 to 30 minutes. Some simple ways to increase your activity level are to take a brisk walk, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or park farther from your destination.
Medicine may be needed to treat high cholesterol. If you are placed on statin drugs it is important to take the medicine as directed, even when you feel well.
Statins are drugs that may help reduce the size of plaque particles that can clog or harden the arteries. Studies have shown that some statins may be effective in reducing the risk of stroke in some people. Several other types of cholesterol lowering drugs are also available. Ask your doctor about the best cholesterol management method for you.
Some things you cannot change, such as family history, age, and gender. If someone in your family has high cholesterol, you are more likely to have it. Most people experience an increase in cholesterol levels until about the age of 65. Women younger than 50 tend to have lower cholesterol and those in menopause have higher levels.
All adults age 20 and older should have their cholesterol checked at least once every five years. Cholesterol should be checked more frequently in men older than 45 and women older than 55.
People with a family history of high cholesterol should also be checked more often.
Dr. Dennis Lang is a cardiologist with McLeod Cardiology Associates, which has offices in Sumter and Manning.
