Hypercholesterolemia is an increasingly prevalent condition in our society. It is an increase in blood cholesterol levels, a fatty substance necessary for various bodily functions, but which in excess can be harmful to health.
What is Cholesterol?
It is a molecule that our body needs to build healthy cells and produce important hormones, such as sex hormones. Most cholesterol is produced by the liver, but we can also get it from the animal foods we eat. There are two main types of cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein), known as ‘bad cholesterol’, and HDL (high-density lipoprotein), known as ‘good cholesterol’. LDL can build up on the walls of the arteries, forming plaques that can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke.
Causes of Hypercholesterolemia
Hypercholesterolaemia can be caused by several factors. A diet high in saturated and trans fats, often present in processed foods, fatty meats and full-fat dairy products, can significantly increase blood cholesterol levels. Lack of physical activity, being overweight, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are other contributing factors. In addition, there is a genetic component; some people may have familial hypercholesterolaemia, an inherited condition that causes high cholesterol levels from childhood.
How do you know if you have hypercholesterolaemia?
Generally, hypercholesterolaemia does not cause obvious symptoms until the effects are already severe. It is therefore essential to have regular blood tests to monitor cholesterol levels, especially if you have a family history of cardiovascular disease or other risk factors.
Prevention and treatment
The good news is that hypercholesterolaemia can be prevented and successfully treated. Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and healthy fats (such as those found in fish, olive oil and nuts) can help keep cholesterol levels in healthy ranges.
In addition, regular exercise, such as walking, swimming or cycling, can help raise HDL cholesterol levels and lower LDL cholesterol levels.
Pharmacists can offer several options to help treat hypercholesterolaemia, both with medication and lifestyle advice. Pharmacists can dispense lipid-lowering drugs, such as statins, fibrates or cholesterol absorption inhibitors, which are essential to reduce LDL-cholesterol levels in patients at high risk. In addition, they can recommend natural supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, which help to improve the lipid profile. They can also offer advice on adopting healthier diets, promote regular physical activity and educate patients on the importance of following prescribed treatment, thus improving adherence and, consequently, cardiovascular health outcomes.
A very special remembrance for Toni Miró Aspa, for all of us Toni from the Miró Pharmacy, who died on the 6th of August at the age of 69. Customers, neighbours, friends and especially family will miss him very much..
