High Cholesterol
At least 38% of Americans have high cholesterol today. If untreated, high cholesterol can translate into very serious health complications, including heart disease and stroke. You can take charge of your heart health by coming to Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine in Midtown Manhattan, for the best high cholesterol diagnosis and treatment with renowned New York cardiologist Mark Meyer, MD, FACP, FACC.
What Is High Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in the body and is also present in certain foods. It plays essential roles in building cells and producing hormones. However, when cholesterol levels in the blood become elevated—a condition known as high cholesterol—it can lead to the accumulation of fatty deposits within the arteries. Over time, these deposits narrow the arteries and restrict blood flow, significantly increasing the risk of serious health events such as heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
What Are the Signs of High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol is often referred to as a "silent" condition because it typically develops without noticeable symptoms. Many individuals are unaware they have high cholesterol until it leads to more severe cardiovascular problems. Without diagnosis and appropriate management, high cholesterol may only become evident after a major event like a heart attack or stroke.
How Is High Cholesterol Diagnosed?
Routine health screenings are crucial for detecting high cholesterol. At Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine, cholesterol levels are evaluated through a blood test known as a lipid panel, which measures several important components:
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often labeled as "bad" cholesterol, LDL contributes to the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries, transporting it to the liver for processing and elimination. Higher HDL levels can reduce cardiovascular risk by counteracting about 25–33% of LDL cholesterol.
Triglycerides: These are a type of fat found in the bloodstream, storing excess calories for later use. Elevated triglycerides, especially when combined with high LDL or low HDL levels, can further increase cardiovascular risk.
Total Blood Cholesterol: This measurement combines LDL, HDL, and 20% of the triglyceride level. Ideally, total cholesterol should be at or below 200 mg/dL, but optimal targets may vary based on individual health profiles.
Diagnosis is not based on numbers alone. Dr. Meyer conducts a comprehensive evaluation that includes overall health, personal and family cardiovascular risk factors, and lifestyle habits. This holistic approach ensures that treatment recommendations are tailored to promote both cardiovascular and overall well-being.
What Is the Treatment for High Cholesterol?
Management of high cholesterol often begins with lifestyle modifications. Dr. Meyer works closely with patients to create individualized plans that may include adopting a heart-healthy diet, increasing physical activity, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, and eliminating smoking. These changes can significantly improve cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.
For individuals who do not achieve adequate cholesterol control through lifestyle changes alone—or for those with very high cholesterol levels and elevated cardiovascular risk—medication may be necessary. Cholesterol-lowering medications are highly effective, but they are most beneficial when combined with sustained lifestyle improvements. Dr. Meyer emphasizes the importance of an integrated treatment strategy to achieve lasting heart health.
How Can Dr. Mark Meyer Help You with High Cholesterol?
At Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine, we deliver personalized, expert care tailored to the complexities of high cholesterol and cardiovascular health. We champion early detection and precision management, blending advanced diagnostics with therapeutic strategies to preserve and enhance heart function. With a commitment to clinical excellence and individualized attention, our practice ensures that each patient receives the highest standard of medical care in an atmosphere of sophistication and trust.
Meet Dr. Mark Meyer
Mark L. Meyer, MD, FACP, FACC, is a board-certified physician and among the leading cardiologists and internists in New York. He is the founder of Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine in Midtown, Manhattan, serving patients throughout New York City. Dr. Meyer integrates different approaches to medicine to provide his patients expert and personalized care at every step of the health journey.
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