What is LDL -Cholesterol?
LDL cholesterol, commonly known as LDL cholesterol or “bad cholesterol,” is a lipid-like wax found in every cell in the body. It plays an important role in many body functions. Cholesterol is primarily produced by the liver, but can also be obtained from foods such as meat and dairy products. Cholesterol is important for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that aid in digestion. However, high levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood can lead to plaque formation in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Over time, this narrows the arteries and impedes blood flow; It increases the risk of stroke, heart disease and paralysis.
Coronary Artery Disease(CAD)
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common heart disease and the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States. CAD occurs when cholesterol (plaque) builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle, causing atherosclerosis. As plaque builds up, the arteries harden and narrow, reducing blood and oxygen flow to the heart. Reduced blood flow can cause symptoms such as chest pain (angina) and, in severe cases, heart failure. Heart disease usually occurs when a blood clot suddenly blocks an artery, cutting off blood flow to the heart and causing heart failure.
Angina
Angina is chest pain or discomfort caused by inadequate blood flow to the heart muscle. It usually presents as tightness or pressure in the chest and sometimes feels like abdominal pain. Pain may radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw or back. There are three main types of angina: stable angina, which often occurs during physical activity and can be treated with rest and medication; Unstable angina, which is most dangerous and cannot be treated with rest or medication, indicates the possibility of a heart attack. attack; Each species varies in severity and requires different management and care methods.
Stabilizing LDL -Cholesterol
To lower LDL cholesterol, focus on heart-healthy foods and minimize trans fats and trans fats. These fats are mostly found in red meat, saturated fats and processed foods. Instead, choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Regular physical activity is very important; Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. If you are overweight, losing weight may help lower LDL cholesterol. Also consider quitting smoking, cutting down on alcohol, and finding healthy ways to manage stress.
Diagnosis
You should schedule a cholesterol test with your doctor to determine how high your LDL cholesterol is. This usually involves a simple blood test to measure your cholesterol levels, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. Your doctor will interpret the results and let you know whether your LDL cholesterol is within a healthy range or high. High LDL cholesterol alone usually causes no symptoms; Therefore, regular screening is important, especially if you have a risk factor such as a family history of high cholesterol, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle.
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Sources:
“Coronary Artery Disease.” Medlineplus.gov, National Library of Medicine, 2019, medlineplus.gov/coronaryarterydisease.html.
Heart Foundation. “Angina.” Heart Foundation NZ, 2019, www.heartfoundation.org.nz/your-heart/heart-conditions/angina.
Medline Plus. “Angina.” Medlineplus.gov, National Library of Medicine, 2019, medlineplus.gov/angina.html.
MedlinePlus. “LDL: The “Bad” Cholesterol.” Medlineplus.gov, National Library of Medicine, 13 Mar. 2023, medlineplus.gov/ldlthebadcholesterol.html.
September 27, Lauren David, and 2021. “HDL & LDL: What You Need to Know about Good and Bad Cholesterol.” Allrecipes, www.allrecipes.com/article/hdl-vs-ldl-cholesterol/.
The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. “Coronary Artery Disease.” The Patient Guide to Heart, Lung, and Esophageal Surgery, 3 Jan. 2019, ctsurgerypatients.org/adult-heart-disease/coronary-artery-disease.
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