Life is short, and you need to enjoy it. But does that mean you get to do whatever you want without any precaution? Many risk factors cause death, and high cholesterol, when left unmanaged, is on the list. Cholesterol is an organic particle found in the blood. There are two types of cholesterols; low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is called ‘bad’ cholesterol as it carries cholesterol from the liver to the bloodstream. It causes a buildup of plaque in the arteries, resulting in atherosclerosis. It happens when LDL cholesterol collects in small pouches, forming lesions. As the buildup continues, blood flow is affected in vital organs. When not managed in time, it leads to heart attack and stroke. On the other hand, HDL carries cholesterol from the bloodstream to the liver to be removed from the body. HDL helps eliminate LDL from arteries, preventing the formation of plaque. Managing high cholesterol – Astoria can help prevent atherosclerosis and the serious health risks that can result from it. With that being said, here are some reasons to keep your cholesterol in check;

Minimize risk of heart disease

Cholesterol is a leading cause of coronary heart disease. Plaque buildup around the arteries narrows the blood vessel and reduces the blood flow to your heart. The blockage leads to chest pain, angina, and heart attack. Controlling your cholesterol levels can help prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries. 

But how will you know if you have high cholesterol levels? Elevated cholesterol has no noticeable symptoms, making screening the only way to know your numbers. If you have high levels, your health practitioner can recommend a suitable treatment plan to help lower it.

Reduced risk of stroke

High cholesterol is the leading risk cause for developing strokes. A stroke occurs when an atherosclerosis-clogged carotid artery reduces blood flow to the brain, causing brain cell damage and paralysis. It is worse in people with a family history of stroke, as they are at greater risk. This emphasizes the urgency to manage your blood cholesterol levels early to help lessen the risk of strokes.

Lower blood pressure

How is blood pressure associated with cholesterol? In the case of high cholesterol levels, plaque develops and continues to build up if not addressed early enough. The plaque narrows blood vessels which causes a strain on blood flow. This means that a higher pressure is required to keep the blood flowing. Controlling your cholesterol can help lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension.

Diminish risk of diabetes

Diabetes is when the body can’t produce enough insulin or adequately use it. Insulin is a hormone that assists the body use glucose from carbohydrates for energy or stores it for future use. Too much sugar builds up in your bloodstream when insulin isn’t working properly. High blood sugar can damage your nerves, blood vessels, and organs with time. Managing your cholesterol numbers can significantly reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and prevent diabetes from getting worse.

Cholesterol is essential in your body to generate healthy cells. But high cholesterol levels increase your risk of suffering from serious health issues. Visit or call New York Medical and Vascular Care to check your cholesterol and run more on the subject.