Cholesterol is an important substance found in your blood that helps to build cell tissue and protect your nerves. There are two types of cholesterol: HDL ("good" cholesterol) and LDL ("bad" cholesterol). Your liver naturally produces cholesterol, and it also comes from certain foods, including dairy products, eggs, and meat. However, too much cholesterol can lead to serious health problems, like strokes or heart attacks. At Mashpee Family Medicine, our physicians provide numerous treatment options to help patients manage and improve their cholesterol levels. Reach out to our office in Mashpee, MA to schedule an appointment for a cholesterol check.

High cholesterol is usually caused by lifestyle factors, such as being overweight, eating a high-fat diet, inactivity, and smoking, while genetics can also play a role. A comprehensive blood panel will be done to determine your levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol. Your physician will work with you to design a customized treatment plan to combat high cholesterol. Typically, high cholesterol is treated using prescription medications or lifestyle adjustments, like reducing your consumption of fatty foods and eating more soluble fiber and healthy fats. The aim is to reduce your bad cholesterol (LDL) while raising your good cholesterol (HDL) numbers.

High cholesterol doesn't always have symptoms, which is why it's known as one of the "silent killers." However, this common issue can be treated. If it's been a while since your last cholesterol check or you have a family history of high cholesterol, get in touch with the professionals at Mashpee Family Medicine. We can provide a complete cholesterol test during your visit to our clinic in Mashpee, MA.