High Cholesterol Treatment

High cholesterol can silently impact your health, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, Evette Facey, NP, at Initiare Healthcare Services, based in Jamaica, New York, can provide the right treatment, Whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both, lowering cholesterol levels can significantly improve your heart health. Learn more by calling or booking an appointment online now for your telehealth visit.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood that plays a vital role in building cells and producing hormones. While your body needs some cholesterol to function, too much can lead to health problems, especially in the form of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol. 

High-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good" cholesterol, helps remove LDL from your bloodstream. You need to have a balance between these two types of cholesterol to maintain heart health.

When is high cholesterol treatment necessary?

High cholesterol treatment becomes necessary when your LDL cholesterol levels are consistently elevated, as this can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. 

Typically, Evette recommends treatment if lifestyle changes like diet and exercise haven't been enough to lower cholesterol, or if you have other risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension, diabetes, smoking, or a family history of heart disease. 

The decision to begin treatment depends on your overall health, cholesterol levels, and individual risk factors.

How does high cholesterol treatment work?

High cholesterol treatment usually begins with lifestyle modifications that include a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding trans fats, saturated fats, and cholesterol-heavy foods. Regular physical activity and weight management are also key components. If your cholesterol remains high despite lifestyle changes, Evette might prescribe medication.

The most common medications used to treat high cholesterol are statins, which work by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by your liver. Other medications include bile acid sequestrants, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and PCSK9 inhibitors, each working differently to lower LDL levels.

How long does it take to see results from high cholesterol treatment?

Your treatment results depend on the approach. Lifestyle changes may take several weeks to a few months before you see significant changes in your cholesterol levels. Medications like statins typically begin to lower LDL levels within a few weeks, but full results can take up to three months. 

Evette provides regular monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of your treatment and makes adjustments as necessary.

Learn more about your cholesterol levels and treatment, if needed. Call or book online now to schedule a consultation via telehealth.