Should we control cholesterol? Let's learn exactly about medication and lifestyle changes.

Did your blood test show that your cholesterol is a little high? Or are you a little worried because someone in your family has cholesterol? Many of us are actually scared when we hear the word 'cholesterol'. But if we understand it properly and manage it properly, it is something that can be controlled. It is very important to be aware of this because it increases the risk of serious diseases like heart attacks and strokes. Today, let's talk about how to control this cholesterol.

How do you choose the treatment method that suits you?

Cholesterol is not the same for everyone, so treatment is not the same for everyone. Your doctor will create a treatment plan that is specific to you based on many factors, including:

• Cholesterol levels in your blood report: How high your cholesterol is.
• Age and family history: Your age, whether anyone in your family has high cholesterol or heart disease.
• Other current medical conditions: Do you have diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or are you overweight?
• Your preference: Some people like to control their diet, while others prefer to take a pill every day. Your personal preference is also important here.
• Heart disease risk: Your risk of developing heart disease, a heart attack, or a stroke within the next 10 years.
• Pre-existing heart disease: If you already have heart disease or have had a previous heart attack or stroke.

Shall we learn about these types of cholesterol and healthy levels?

Your doctor will ask you to take a blood test called a "lipid profile." This is a test that can accurately measure the types of cholesterol in your blood and their levels. This test is also used to see how effective your treatment is.

Here's what a healthy person's cholesterol levels should look like:

But remember, if you have other medical conditions, your doctor may give you a lower target. For example:

• If you don't have heart disease and are at low risk, your LDL target may be less than 100 mg/dL .
• If you have heart disease or diabetes, you may be told that your LDL goal should be less than 70 mg/dL .

Step one: Change your lifestyle

Most of the time, your doctor won't just give you medication. The first thing they'll tell you is to make heart-healthy lifestyle changes. If your cholesterol levels are just borderline, you should definitely make these changes. If these things help control your cholesterol, you may not need to take medication at all.

Even if you take medication, it is very important to continue these habits. Then you will be able to reduce the dosage of the medication.

What are these lifestyle changes?

• Heart-healthy diet: Reduce foods high in saturated fats . This means reducing red meat (beef, pork), full-fat dairy products, and fatty foods. Instead, eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and soluble fiber. Include fish, oats, fruits, vegetables, and nuts in your diet. Stay away from packaged foods and baked goods that are high in sugar and trans fats .
• Exercise: Engage in exercise such as brisk walking, running, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week.
• Avoid smoking: Quit smoking and vaping completely. It is also not good to be around someone else who is smoking (secondhand smoke).
• Limit alcohol: Limit to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
• Lose weight: If you are overweight, try to lose it. Even losing just 10% of your total weight can have a big impact on your cholesterol levels.

In what situations is medication needed?

If you've made lifestyle changes but your cholesterol levels aren't under control, your doctor may prescribe medication. Medication is more likely to be started in cases like these:

• If your LDL cholesterol level is 190 mg/dL or higher.
• If you are between 45-70 years old, have diabetes, and have an LDL level of 70 mg/dL or higher.
• If you are at high risk of heart disease and have an LDL level of 70 mg/dL or higher.
• If you have already had a heart attack, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease.

There are several types of medications that can be used to lower cholesterol.

How long does it take to see results?

Once you start making lifestyle changes, your doctor will check you regularly. After about 12 weeks , they will check your cholesterol again and decide if you need to make any further changes to your diet or exercise plan.

If your cholesterol levels don't go down after that, you may be advised to start medication. After starting medication, your blood will be tested again in 4-8 weeks to see if the medication is working. After that, it's usually a good idea to have your cholesterol levels checked about once a year.