High Cholesterol Specialist
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SWICFT Cardiology
Cardiology located in Naples, FL, Bonita Springs, FL, & Marco Island, FL
High cholesterol doesn’t produce any symptoms, but it can cause serious consequences for your heart health when left untreated. At SWICFT Cardiology, serving Southwest Florida with locations in Naples, Bonita Springs, and Marco Island, Florida, board-certified cardiologist James Talano, MD, MM, FACC, and his skilled staff can help you manage high cholesterol to reduce the risk of a heart attack, stroke, and other complications. Call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.
High Cholesterol Q & A
What is high cholesterol?
High cholesterol is a common condition that affects nearly 40% of adults in the United States. It occurs when cholesterol, a waxy substance found in your blood, builds up in blood vessel walls and makes them too narrow or blocked.
Over time, high cholesterol can lead to blood clots, a heart attack, or a stroke when left untreated. Lifestyle changes and medications can reduce high cholesterol levels.
High cholesterol doesn’t produce any symptoms, which is why it’s important to get screened for the condition — especially if you’re at risk of developing it.
What are the risk factors for high cholesterol?
Common factors that increase your risk of having high cholesterol include:
- Body weight challenges
- Eating too much saturated or trans fat
- Low fiber intake
- Poor dietary habits
- Lack of exercise
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Ongoing stress
- Being over 40
- Certain medications
- Some medical conditions
Medical conditions that may cause unhealthy cholesterol levels include diabetes, kidney disease, HIV/AIDS, thyroid conditions, lupus, and more.
Adopting healthy habits is the best way to prevent or reduce high cholesterol.
How does my doctor diagnose high cholesterol?
Your provider can diagnose high cholesterol using a simple blood test. Specialists at SWICFT Cardiology also check your blood pressure and pulse, complete a physical exam, and review your medical history. They could recommend undergoing heart-function testing or on-site imaging procedures.
How is high cholesterol treated?
To treat high cholesterol , SWICFT Cardiology providers may suggest:
Lifestyle changes
Making changes to your diet, exercise program, and other lifestyle habits can reduce high cholesterol naturally. Examples include:
- Increase your fiber intake
- Eat fewer foods rich in animal fats
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Take dietary supplements as directed by your cardiologist
- Avoid smoking
- Lose weight if you’re overweight
- Exercise at least 30 minutes most days
- Reduce or eliminate alcohol
Furthermore, keep stress levels as low as possible.
Medications
Taking medications can reduce high cholesterol if your levels are very high or lifestyle changes alone haven’t worked. Your cardiologist could recommend taking medications in addition to making lifestyle changes to maximize your heart health.
To find out if you have high cholesterol or get treated for it, call the SWICFT Cardiology office or schedule an appointment online today.
