Overview of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is a common but serious condition where excess fats (lipids) build up in the blood. Over time, these deposits can narrow or block arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Under the expert care of Dr. Karthik Raghuram, patients receive accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and continuous monitoring to effectively lower cholesterol levels and protect long-term heart health.

Why High Cholesterol Is a Concern

Cholesterol itself is essential for body functions—but when levels rise too high, it becomes harmful. Excess LDL (“bad cholesterol”) and triglycerides lead to plaque formation in arteries, known as atherosclerosis. This reduces blood flow to vital organs, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial.

Many people have high cholesterol without any symptoms, making regular screening extremely important.

Common Symptoms and Risk Indicators

High cholesterol rarely causes symptoms. However, you may be at risk if you experience or have:

• Family history of high cholesterol

• Obesity or overweight

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Diabetes or thyroid disorders

• High blood pressure

• Smoking or excessive alcohol intake

• Unhealthy eating habits

People above age 35 should undergo routine lipid profile tests even without symptoms.

Causes of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol develops due to various factors, including:

• Diet high in saturated and trans fats

• Lack of physical activity

• Genetic conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia

• Underlying health conditions

• Hormonal changes

• Long-term stress and improper sleep patterns

Understanding the cause helps tailor the most effective treatment strategy.

How High Cholesterol Is Diagnosed

Dr. Karthik Raghuram conducts a thorough assessment that includes:

1. Detailed Clinical Examination

Evaluation of medical history, lifestyle, symptoms, and family history.

2. Lipid Profile Test

Measures:

• Total cholesterol

• LDL (bad cholesterol)

• HDL (good cholesterol)

• Triglycerides

3. Additional Tests (If Needed)

• Blood sugar levels

• Thyroid function tests

• ECG or 2D Echo (if heart-related symptoms exist)

• Coronary artery evaluation (if risk is high)

These tests help determine the severity and impact on heart health.

Treatment Approach for High Cholesterol

Treatment focuses on lowering cholesterol levels, preventing plaque buildup, and reducing heart disease risk.
Dr. Karthik offers a personalised, preventive, and long-term management plan.

1. Lifestyle Modifications

• Heart-healthy diet (low in fats & refined sugar)

• Regular exercise

• Weight reduction

• Stress management

• Limiting alcohol and quitting smoking

2. Medication Therapy

If lifestyle changes alone are not enough, medications may include:

• Statins

• Cholesterol absorption inhibitors

• Triglyceride-lowering drugs

• Combination therapy for severe cases

Medication helps reduce plaque formation and protects heart function.

3. Monitoring & Follow-Up

Regular checkups ensure cholesterol levels stay controlled and treatment is effective.

Complications of Untreated High Cholesterol

If not treated on time, high cholesterol can cause:

• Coronary artery disease

• Heart attack

• Stroke

• Peripheral artery disease

• High blood pressure

• Reduced blood supply to vital organs

Early treatment significantly reduces these risks.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

Seek urgent evaluation if you experience:

• Sudden chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Severe dizziness or collapse

• Pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back

These may indicate a serious cardiac event.

Book Your Cholesterol Management Appointment

High cholesterol is manageable — and often reversible — with the right guidance. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Karthik Raghuram for comprehensive evaluation, personalised treatment, and long-term protection for your heart.