Were you diagnosed with high blood pressure? If so, you might be wondering how to treat it. Your doctor will likely provide direction, but lowering cholesterol usually starts with lifestyle changes. Here’s a look at some of the treatments your doctor may suggest:
Lifestyle changes
Doctors suggest reducing saturated fats, eliminating trans fats, increasing soluable fiber, and eating foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Adding moderate exercise to your daily will also be suggested. Exercise can raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL).
Medications that treat cholesterol
Doctors will suggest changing diet and exercise levels before prescribing medication, but for some, medications are necessary. Some medications that help lower cholesterol include:
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Statins
Stains are the most commonly prescribed medications. Specific medications that fall under this category are Lipitor, Lescol, Lovastatin, Livalo, Pravachol, Crestor, and Zocor.
Stains are known to lower the risk of heart attack, which can increase when cholesterol levels are high.
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Medications that work in your intestines
There are certain medications that attach to the bile in your liver and prevent it from being absorbed in your blood. A large portion of bile is generated by cholesterol, so by controlling the amount that’s absorbed in the body it results in lower cholesterol.
Medications that fall into this category are Prevalite, WelChol, and Colestid.
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Protein Blockers
For people who aren’t able to get their cholesterol under control with diet, exercise, and statins, doctors can prescribe a protein blocker. They block a certain kind of protein that makes it easier for your body to remove LDL from the blood. These medications are newer so some of the side effects are still being discovered.
Medications in this category include Praluent and Repatha.
To find the best treatment for your cholesterol levels, speak with your doctor. Your doctor will find the best combination of diet, exercise, and medication that’s right for you.
