High Cholesterol

Up to 94 million Americans have high cholesterol, a potentially serious health problem that presents few symptoms. At his private practice in Flossmoor, Illinois, board-certified internist Sameh Nabelsi, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating high cholesterol using a holistic and integrative approach. Call the office today to request a cholesterol screening or book your appointment online.

What is high cholesterol?

If you have high cholesterol, you have higher than normal levels of fat (lipids)  in your blood. Your body needs some lipids to function, but too many can clog your arteries, increasing your risk of a heart attack or stroke. 

High cholesterol often develops slowly over a period of years. The only way to determine your risk is by undergoing a blood test called a lipid panel. 

What causes high cholesterol?

High cholesterol occurs due to lifestyle factors and genetics. You’re more likely to have high cholesterol of you:

• Drink alcohol excessively
• Smoke
• Have lots of stress
• Eat a poor diet

Your activity level can also play a role. For example, exercising regularly helps keep your cholesterol levels in check.

Who should be screened for high cholesterol?

Dr. Nabelsi recommends that people 18 and older undergo a lipid panel every five years. After you turn 45, get screened every two years, as your risk of high cholesterol increases with age. If you have a family history of heart disease, Dr. Nabelsi may suggest more frequent testing to reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

How is high cholesterol diagnosed?

Dr. Nabelsi draws a sample of your blood and sends it to a nearby lab for analysis. 

Cholesterol readings are measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood. A normal, or healthy, cholesterol reading is below 200 mg/dL, while anything above that is considered elevated or high.

Since cholesterol levels can fluctuate, Dr. Nabelsi may recommend scheduling a follow-up test several weeks or months later. To ensure accurate test results, it’s crucial you fast for 12 hours before, only drinking water.

How is high cholesterol treated?

Dr. Nabelsi treats high cholesterol using a holistic and integrative approach. Often, healthy lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking are enough to keep your cholesterol in check. 

If your numbers stay high, even after these changes, you may benefit from prescription medication. Dr. Nabelsi may suggest:

• Statins
• Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
• Bempedoic acid
• Bild-acid-binding resins
• PCSK9 inhibitors

Call the practice of Sameh Nabelsi, MD, today to receive treatment for high cholesterol, or make an appointment online.