Cholesterol and triglycerides are fats, also called lipids, carried in the blood. Your body needs cholesterol for essential functions, but unhealthy lipid levels can contribute to cardiovascular disease. Dyslipidemia is the medical term for these abnormalities. Dr. Alexandro Zarruk's areas of care include dyslipidemia and its connection to diabetes, weight and overall metabolic health.
What your cholesterol results mean
A lipid profile measures several components, including LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Elevated LDL can contribute to plaque building up in arteries. HDL helps transport cholesterol back to the liver. Triglycerides provide a way for the body to store energy, and elevated levels can also signal metabolic concerns.
Results are interpreted together with your medical history. The same cholesterol result may lead to different treatment recommendations for someone with established cardiovascular disease and someone whose overall risk is lower.
Why testing is important
High cholesterol usually causes no symptoms. Blood testing can reveal a problem before you notice a change in how you feel. Genetics, eating patterns, physical activity and certain medical conditions can influence lipid levels. Some people inherit conditions that cause particularly high cholesterol, making family history an important part of assessment.
Diabetes and an underactive thyroid may also affect cholesterol. Reviewing these possible contributors helps guide care and determine whether additional evaluation is appropriate.
Assessing your cardiovascular risk
A medical review considers your lipid profile alongside blood pressure, smoking history, diabetes, age and family history. Existing heart or blood vessel disease changes the treatment discussion. Your clinician may also consider additional testing when it would help clarify risk. The aim is to identify a treatment plan suited to your overall health.
Managing lipid levels over time
Management may include changes to eating patterns, regular physical activity and support for stopping smoking. Medication may be recommended according to your lipid levels and cardiovascular risk. Statins are commonly used, and other treatments may be considered when needed. The discussion should cover expected benefits, possible side effects and how treatment fits with your other medications.
Repeat blood tests help show whether the plan is working and whether adjustments are needed. If you have abnormal cholesterol results or a strong family history of heart disease, contact Dr. Zarruk's office to ask about an assessment.