LDL cholesterol is a sticky substance that clumps with other substances in your bloodstream, eventually forming plaque along artery walls. As a plaque grows, the affected artery narrows, restricting blood flow through the vessel. Sometimes portions of the plaque can break away and form a blood clot. Plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) is the leading cause of coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attack, and stroke. It also causes peripheral arterial disease (PAD), blocking blood flow to your arms and legs and resulting in leg pain with exercise (claudication), persistent swelling, and slow healing skin ulcers.

Diet is a significant contributor, but other conditions can also cause elevated cholesterol levels, including:

Chronic kidney disease
Diabetes
Hypothyroidism
HIV/AIDS
Inflammatory conditions like lupus
Excess weight
Inactive lifestyle
Excess alcohol
Some acne and high blood pressure medications can also raise your LDL cholesterol.

At CN Internal Medicine, treatment begins with a physical exam, review of your medical history, medication review, and diagnostic studies, including a complete lipid profile to measure your LDL, HDL, and other blood fats. Based on your evaluation results, your customized treatment strategy can include a medication called statins to block your liver from making cholesterol. Other drugs, like Zetia®, also called ezetimibe, limit your intestine’s absorption of dietary cholesterol. Changes in your diet, increased physical activity, and weight loss (if necessary) are essential components of cholesterol management. They might be all you need to reduce your levels. Schedule an evaluation at CN Internal Medicine today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.