What does high total cholesterol indicate?
Disease description:
Uncle has been feeling unwell recently. After going to the hospital for a checkup, the doctor told him that his total cholesterol level is high. What does elevated total cholesterol indicate?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
Elevated total cholesterol levels may indicate the following points:
1. Risk of cardiovascular disease: Elevated total cholesterol levels represent cholesterol levels in the blood exceeding the normal range. This typically means the individual faces a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease and stroke. Cholesterol is an important component of cell membranes and is involved in the production of certain hormones, but excessively high total cholesterol levels can lead to plaque formation on the inner walls of arteries. These plaques can impede blood flow and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
2. Impact of dietary habits: High cholesterol levels may be related to unhealthy dietary habits, such as excessive intake of saturated fats and trans fats, as well as insufficient dietary fiber. Adjusting the dietary structure, increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, can have a positive effect on controlling cholesterol levels.
3. Medication effects: Certain medications, such as hormonal drugs and antipsychotics, may also cause elevated cholesterol levels. When using these medications, lipid profiles should be monitored regularly, and medication regimens should be adjusted under the guidance of a physician.
4. Genetic factors: Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic disorder where patients have difficulty effectively removing excess cholesterol from the body due to gene mutations, resulting in elevated total cholesterol levels.
