Hypercholesterolemia Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Hypercholesterolemia is a general term used for excess cholesterol in the blood. In general, there are three main types of cholesterol in the blood, namely high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides.
HDL is the good cholesterol that prevents the blockage of blood vessels. Meanwhile, LDL and triglycerides that are too high will cause blood vessel blockage. Hyperlipidemia is a condition of LDL or triglycerides that are too high in the blood. LDL is considered high when the level is above 130 mg/dl, while triglycerides are considered high when the level is above 150 mg/dl.
Symptoms
In general, hypercholesterolemia does not show any symptoms. In hypercholesterolemia caused by genetic factors, you can see piles of yellowish fat around the eyes or joints.
Reason
Hypercholesterolemia can be caused by:
• Genetic factors
• Diet with too much fat
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Side effects of drugs such as hormonal and steroid drugs
• Diabetes mellitus
• Thyroid hormone disorders
• Pregnancy
Diagnosis
To determine whether there is hypercholesterolemia, it is necessary to examine the cholesterol profile of the blood. For accurate results, it is recommended that you fast for 9-12 hours first.
Treatment
The main treatment for hypercholesterolemia is to change lifestyle. Patients with hypercholesterolemia are advised to regulate their diet, exercise regularly, not smoke, and prevent excess weight.
People with hypercholesterolemia should also consume lots of fruits, vegetables, fiber, and whole grains. In addition, it is also recommended to do physical exercise (for at least 30 minutes per day). The most practical physical exercises that are recommended are jogging, brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
If after improving your lifestyle, cholesterol is still high, the doctor can give drugs such as statins, fibrates, and the like to lower cholesterol. Drug administration depends on the disturbed cholesterol component.
Prevention
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is the most effective way to prevent hypercholesterolemia. The trick is to regulate your diet (high in fiber, limit fat), exercise regularly, don’t smoke, and avoid obesity.