Cholesterol Awareness Month: How Direct Primary Care Helps You Take Control of Your Health
September is Cholesterol Awareness Month, a great time to take charge of your heart health. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. Understanding your cholesterol levels and taking steps to manage them early can make all the difference in preventing chronic diseases.
Cholesterol levels are measured through a lipid panel, which provides vital information about two main types of cholesterol: HDL (good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol). You want your HDL to be above 60 mg/dL and your LDL to stay below 100 mg/dL for optimal heart health.
Why Cholesterol Levels Matter for Your Heart
High cholesterol often goes unnoticed because it doesn’t present symptoms until it’s too late—when you’re already at risk for a heart attack or stroke. Excess LDL cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in your arteries, which narrows blood flow and leads to conditions like atherosclerosis. This can cause:
– Coronary artery disease (blocked arteries to the heart)
– Peripheral artery disease (blocked arteries in the legs and arms)
– Carotid artery disease (blocked arteries to the brain)
Cholesterol is like a silent danger. You can live with high levels for years without knowing it, making regular cholesterol checks critical.
How Direct Primary Care (DPC) at Exemplar Care Supports Cholesterol Management
Direct Primary Care (DPC) offers a patient-centered, proactive approach to managing chronic conditions like high cholesterol. Here’s how DPC stands out in preventive care:
– Easy Access to Routine Screenings: In DPC, member patients can schedule regular cholesterol screenings without the long wait times typical of traditional healthcare. This means quicker access to your results and faster action if your numbers are concerning.
– Personalized Care Plans: Your DPC provider will create a customized plan for managing cholesterol that works for your lifestyle, whether that’s through nutrition, exercise, or medication. For tips on heart-healthy eating, explore resources like the American Heart Association.
– Focus on Prevention: The DPC model allows for more time with your provider to discuss preventive measures. Providers work closely with you to adjust your diet, incorporate regular exercise, and manage any additional risk factors like high blood pressure. Learn more about lifestyle changes that support heart health from Mayo Clinic
– Continuous Monitoring and Support: In a DPC setting, your provider will help you monitor your cholesterol over time, ensuring you stay on track with your goals. Regular check-ins and follow-up tests are key to reducing the risk of heart disease in the long run. It is important to know your blood pressure numbers.
Tips for Lowering Cholesterol
– Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Need motivation? The CDC’s physical activity guidelines can help you get started.
– Eat a heart-healthy diet: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like those found in avocados and olive oil.
– Manage stress: Stress can negatively impact your cholesterol and heart health. Consider mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga.
How Often Should You Check Your Cholesterol?
Cholesterol levels should be checked every 4-6 years for healthy adults. However, those with a family history of heart disease or other risk factors may need more frequent tests. Children should also get their cholesterol checked once between the ages of 9 and 11.
Knowing your cholesterol levels can help you take control of your health before it’s too late. This Cholesterol Awareness Month, prioritize your heart health and schedule a checkup with your healthcare provider. With the help of Direct Primary Care, managing cholesterol becomes a simple, patient-centered process designed to fit your unique health needs.
By staying informed, you can significantly lower your risk of chronic diseases and enjoy a healthier life.
