High Cholesterol Treatment in Boynton Beach, FL
High cholesterol is one of the leading contributors to heart disease and stroke, yet it rarely causes noticeable symptoms. At Trudell Doctor, M.D. & Associates, we help patients in Boynton Beach, FL understand their cholesterol numbers, identify their personal risk, and follow a practical treatment plan that protects their heart for years to come. A simple blood test is often all it takes to get started.
Understanding Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body needs to build cells and make hormones. Problems arise when certain types build up in the bloodstream and collect along artery walls as plaque. Over time, this narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow to the heart and brain, which is why cholesterol management is a key part of our cardiovascular health care.
Types of Cholesterol
- LDL (low-density lipoprotein): Often called “bad” cholesterol, LDL contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries.
- HDL (high-density lipoprotein): Known as “good” cholesterol, HDL helps carry excess cholesterol away from the arteries.
- Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood that, when elevated, also raises cardiovascular risk.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop high cholesterol, but risk increases with age, family history, diets high in saturated and trans fats, inactivity, smoking, and excess weight. Cholesterol problems often appear alongside high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and an underactive thyroid, which is why we may also check for thyroid disorders. Women may also see cholesterol levels change during menopause.
Cholesterol Screening
A lipid panel is a simple blood test that measures your total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. We include cholesterol screening as part of routine preventative care and your annual primary care visit, and we recommend more frequent testing for patients with existing risk factors.
How We Treat High Cholesterol
Your provider will look at your full cardiovascular risk profile, not just one number, to build the right plan for you. Treatment may include:
- Heart-healthy eating with more fiber, vegetables, and healthy fats
- Regular aerobic exercise
- Weight loss support through our medical weight loss and weight management programs
- Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol
- Cholesterol-lowering medications such as statins when appropriate
- Follow-up lipid testing to measure your progress
Ongoing Care You Can Count On
Managing cholesterol is a long-term commitment, and we are with you every step of the way. Follow-up visits help us fine-tune your plan, and established patients may be able to review lab results through telemedicine. Learn about other conditions we treat or explore our family medicine services.
High Cholesterol FAQs
What is a healthy cholesterol level?
For most adults, a total cholesterol under 200 mg/dL, LDL under 100 mg/dL, and HDL of 60 mg/dL or higher are considered desirable. Your ideal targets may differ depending on your overall heart disease risk.
Does high cholesterol cause symptoms?
Usually not. Most people do not know they have high cholesterol until they have a blood test, which is why routine screening is so important.
How often should I have my cholesterol checked?
Most healthy adults should be screened every four to six years, while patients with risk factors or existing high cholesterol need testing more often. Your provider will recommend the right schedule for you.
Can diet alone lower cholesterol?
For some patients, yes. Diet, exercise, and weight loss can make a significant difference. Others, especially those with a strong family history, may also need medication.
Do I need to fast before a cholesterol test?
Fasting is not always required. Your provider will let you know if you should fast before your lipid panel, especially if your triglycerides need to be measured precisely.
Is high cholesterol genetic?
It can be. A condition called familial hypercholesterolemia causes very high cholesterol from a young age. Sharing your family history helps us identify inherited risk early.
Schedule Your Cholesterol Screening
Know your numbers and protect your heart. Contact Trudell Doctor, M.D. & Associates in Boynton Beach, FL at (561) 807-7780 or request an appointment online to schedule your cholesterol check.