- Almost 3/4th or 75% of people who have sustained a stroke or a heart attack have been found to have high cholesterol. However, most people do not prioritize lowering it. And therefore, these individuals are at a higher risk of having recurrence of stroke.
- It is very easy to test this parameter. Lipid profile is available easily now. One has to simply give his/her blood sample, preferably in the fasting state. If found to be high, one needs positive lifestyle habits of eating healthy, exercising regularly, in addition to lowering cholesterol, and taking medications prescribed by your doctor.
- How does cholesterol affect your body? This builds up as fatty deposits, called plaques, inside your arteries. These plaques can narrow the lumen of the blood vessels, thereby reducing the flow of blood through them. Sometimes, pieces of plaques break up and block the bloodstream. This can cause sudden cessation of blood flow to the brain or the heart, causing a stroke or a heart attack, respectively.
- The levels of cholesterol should be as low as possible. One should take the prescribed medicines regularly. Many people also have diabetes and hypertension. These should also be tested regularly and well-controlled.
Facts:
- Triglycerides may often be needed to increase. A good diet & physical activity develop in improving the cholesterol levels.
- Both men & women can be affected by these numbers.
- The issue of damaged lipid can start at any stage. At my young age, it should be checked to prevent any strokes or heart attacks.
- While it is true the normal levels of cholesterol function, it is not enough. It can gravely affect the body.
- It’s important to take prescribed medicines exactly as instructed.
- Lifestyle changes are necessary to prevent heart disease and stroke, even if you’re on medication.
Myths:
- Diet & physical activity are enough to lower cholesterol levels.
- Having high LDL affects only men.
- You don’t need to check your cholesterol levels until you have reached middle age.
- Cholesterol levels are important only for body fat-burning.
- Only overweight & obese people have high cholesterol,
- Taking cholesterol medicines means you don’t have to make diet & lifestyle changes.
