It is
important to keep cholesterol in check as high cholesterol levels is a leading
cause of cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle changes, like a better diet and more
exercise, may prevent or treat unhealthy cholesterol levels. Medication may
also be needed as well. It is advisable to go for regular health checkups in
order to assess your risk of heart disease. Moreover, your doctor will most likely develop a treatment
plan that’s right for you. When it comes to medication, be sure to take all
medicines as prescribed by your doctor.
Heart
disease is the leading cause of occurrence of cardiac emergencies in people.
The most life-threatening of all cardiac emergencies include cardiac arrest and
heart attack. A victim would require immediate treatment for survival with the
most appropriate treatment being proper application of the life-saving CPR
procedures. The techniques comprise chest compressions and rescue breaths.
Always select a certified training center for acquiring training such as the
AHA certified CPR Indianapolis.
Certified instructors conduct the classes through a series of audio and video
lectures and hands-on practice.
There are
several medications recommended and used to lower blood cholesterol levels with
Statins being the most recommended one for patients. People belonging to any of
the below-mentioned category should discuss with their doctor about the risks
and benefits of statin therapy:
1. Adults with a history of known
cardiovascular disease, including stroke, caused by atherosclerosis.
2. Individuals with LDL-C level of
greater than 190mg/dL.
3. Adults 40-75 years, with diabetes.
4. Adults 40–75 years, with LDL-C level
of 70-189 mg/dL and a 5%to 19.9% 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular
disease from atherosclerosis, with risk enhancing factors.
5. Adults 40–75 years, with LDL-C level
of 70-189 mg/dL and a 20% or greater 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular
disease from atherosclerosis.
Statins- This class of drugs, also known as
HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, works in the liver to prevent cholesterol from
forming thus reducing the amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood. Some
of the statins available include Atorvastatin, Fluvastatin, Lovastatin, Pravastatin,
Rosuvastatin, Simvastatin.
PCSK9 inhibitors- They bind to and inactivate a
protein in liver in order to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Resins- This class of LDL-lowering drugs,
also known as bile acid sequestrants or bile acid-binding drugs, works in the
intestines by promoting increased disposal of cholesterol. Names of available
resins include Cholestyramine, Colestipol, Colesevelam Hcl.
Lipid-lowering Therapies:
Niacin- Niacin works in the liver by
affecting the production of blood fats with some of the side-effects being flushing,
itching and stomach upset. It can also cause toxicity and can also raise blood
sugar level. It comes in prescription form and as a dietary supplement.
Fibrates- These drugs aren’t very effective in
lowering LDL cholesterol although they are the best in lowering triglycerides and
in some cases increasing HDL levels. Names of available fibrates include Gemfibrozil,
Fenofibrate, Clofibrate.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters- As the name suggests, these medications
are derived from fish oils that are chemically changed and purified and are
used in tandem with dietary changes, to help people with very high triglyceride
levels (over 500 mg/dL) lower their levels. They can cause serious
side-effects. Names include Lovaza, Vascepa.
Do consult
your doctor prior to taking any sort of medication. Eat well and incorporate
some form of physical exercise in your daily routine which can play a huge role
in keeping your cholesterol levels in check.
For more information or to register for a
course, get in touch with CPR Indianapolis.
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