What Is High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol is a condition where excess cholesterol builds up in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Dr. Jessica Chung at J.C. Healthcare Associates provides expert cholesterol management and heart health care in Tampa, FL.
What Causes High Cholesterol?
Several factors contribute to high cholesterol, including:
- Unhealthy Diet: Consuming foods high in saturated and trans fats
- Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyle leading to weight gain
- Genetics: Family history of high cholesterol
- Obesity: Excess body weight raising cholesterol levels
- Smoking: Reducing good cholesterol (HDL) and increasing bad cholesterol (LDL)
- Underlying Conditions: Diabetes, kidney disease, and thyroid disorders
What Are the Symptoms of High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol often has no visible symptoms. The only way to detect it is through a blood test. However, in advanced cases, complications such as chest pain (angina), heart attack, or stroke may occur.
How Is High Cholesterol Diagnosed?
Dr. Jessica Chung will perform a lipid panel, a blood test that measures:
- Total Cholesterol
- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) – "Bad Cholesterol"
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) – "Good Cholesterol"
- Triglycerides
What Are the Risks of Untreated High Cholesterol?
If left unmanaged, high cholesterol can lead to serious health issues such as:
- Atherosclerosis: Hardening and narrowing of the arteries
- Heart Disease: Increased risk of heart attack and heart failure
- Stroke: Blocked blood flow to the brain
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Reduced circulation in the limbs
What Are the Treatment Options for High Cholesterol?
Dr. Jessica Chung offers personalized cholesterol management plans that include:
1. Lifestyle Modifications
- Healthy Diet: Emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in at least 30 minutes of activity most days
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce cholesterol levels
- Quitting Smoking: Improving HDL levels and overall heart health
2. Medication Therapy
If lifestyle changes alone are not enough, Dr. Chung may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications such as:
- Statins: Help lower LDL cholesterol and reduce heart disease risk
- Ezetimibe: Blocks cholesterol absorption in the intestines
- PCSK9 Inhibitors: For patients with genetic high cholesterol or statin intolerance
3. Routine Monitoring
Regular check-ups and blood tests help track progress and adjust treatment as needed.
How Can You Prevent High Cholesterol?
- Eat a balanced diet low in unhealthy fats
- Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Get routine cholesterol screenings, especially if you have risk factors
Why Choose J.C. Healthcare Associates for Cholesterol Management?
- Experienced Primary Care Provider: Dr. Jessica Chung specializes in preventive health
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored to your individual risk factors and health goals
- Comprehensive Care: Nutritional counseling, medication management, and lifestyle coaching
- Convenient Location: Serving Tampa, FL, and surrounding areas
Schedule a High Cholesterol Consultation in Tampa, FL
Take control of your heart health today. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jessica Chung at J.C. Healthcare Associates for expert cholesterol management and prevention.