CWe all need cholesterol to build healthy cells and even hormones. Problems arise however when we have too much in our blood as it can cause fatty build ups which can block arteries.

What is it?

  • Choleresterol is a building block used by our bodies to build cells and hormones. But when we have to much in our blood it can cause fatty deposits on the lining of the arteries and block the blood flow to the heart.
  • High cholesterol can be largely preventable through healthy diet and exercise.

Symptoms

High cholesterol has no symptoms. A blood test is the only way to detect high cholesterol.

Causes

Proteins carry cholesterol through the blood. The 'cholesterol/protein complex' is called a lipoprotein. There are a few different types:

  • Low-density lipoprotein (LDL). LDL, or "bad," cholesterol. This is the cholesterol that builds up in  your arteries causing blockages.
  • Very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL).
  • High-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL, or "good," cholesterol picks up excess cholesterol and takes it back to your liver.

How do you treat it?

Like any disease, even if there is no cure, there is almost always something you can do to manage it and take control. There are three main areas involved in the treatment of any disease:

For information on medicines and therapies relevant to High Cholesterol, make an appointment at Lynch's pharmacy, Broadale, douglas, Cork at 021-4366923.

Learn all about the drugs used to treat the disease and any complementary medicines or therapies proven to help. Equip yourself with the tools to manage the condition and not be managed by it.

How do you live with it?

Certain adjustments may be needed to get on with your life, and often, some simple tips and advice can go a long way to making these changes. 

When you come to a Lynch's Pharmacy Clinic, we give you all the necessary information available to make your life more manageable and allow you to better live with your condition.

References

Cholesterol-http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cholesterol

High cholesterol, a comprehensive overview                                                                                                                                   http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-blood-cholesterol/DS00178