High cholesterol, in association with a number of other things, can kill you. It may be hard to believe that cholesterol can do so much damage, but study after study has proven this statement accurate. There are many disorders that can cause severe hypercholesterolemia, although its development is usually due to genetic factors. Among the most important forms of cholesterol are familial hypercholesterolemia, severe polygenic hypercholesterolemia and familial combined hypercholesterolemia. If you haven’t had a physical in a while, it is best to schedule one soon with your local Family Doctor in Andover Kansas.
Different Types of High Cholesterol
Familial hypercholesterolemia: Consists of a serious disorder caused by a series of mutations in the receptor gene of low density lipoproteins that transport cholesterol. It affects one in 500 people and experts estimate that over one million Americans suffer from familial hypercholesterolemia, although 50 percent of them are not diagnosed or treated. There are heterozygous and homozygous forms of the disease as well.
Severe polygenic hypercholesterolemia: This is characterized by high levels of LDL cholesterol caused by genetic and environmental factors. It is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and about seven percent of first-degree relatives of patients with polygenic hypercholesterolemia have significant concentrations of LDL cholesterol. The level is usually higher than 220 mg/dl.
Familial combined hyperlipidemia: In this disorder the affected have very high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides. It is unknown if the cause is found in one or more genetic factors and no clinical features have allowed doctors to diagnose this issue. Total cholesterol is between 250 and 350 mg/dl, while triglycerides undergo significant variations. Treatment involves reducing weight and intake of saturated fat and cholesterol. To control high triglycerides nicotinic acid may be administered. Visit your Family Doctor in Andover Kansas to have blood work done and see what your levels are.
Treatment
Generally, all people suffering from hypercholesterolemia should undergo dietary therapy to reduce LDL cholesterol levels. They should also increase physical activity and eliminate risk factors that may favor the development of associated diseases. Drug therapy is reserved for patients who have a very high risk of cardiovascular disease, severe forms of hypercholesterolemia, severe secondary dyslipidemia or who have not responded to dietary treatment risk. Once treatment is established there that periodic monitoring of the concentration of cholesterol in blood. Click here for more information.
