Lipids are a type of fat that is essential for our body to function properly. However, high levels of certain lipids, such as cholesterol and triglycerides, can increase your risk of heart disease. A lipid profile blood test, also called a lipid panel or cholesterol test, can determine these levels and provide a clear snapshot of your overall lipid health.
Cholesterol, while necessary for cell function, can become dangerous when its levels rise too high. Excessive cholesterol can lead to the buildup of fatty deposits, or plaques, in your arteries—a condition known as atherosclerosis. Over time, these plaques can narrow or even block your arteries, disrupting blood flow throughout your body and increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.
A cholesterol test is a powerful tool in our arsenal against coronary artery disease. At North Atlanta Heart & Vascular Center, we offer advanced lipidology services that focus on managing cholesterol levels to prevent heart disease and other heart conditions. Our dedicated cardiologists in the Atlanta area are committed to providing personalized, comprehensive care, and have expertise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing high cholesterol.
Together, we'll work towards safeguarding your heart health and enhancing your well-being. Schedule your appointment today with one of our cholesterol specialists.
A lipid panel test is recommended for people of all age groups and genders to monitor and manage their lipid health. A person's first cholesterol screening should be done between the ages of 9 and 11, and then again every five years until later into adulthood.
For men aged 45 to 65 and women aged 55 to 65, a more comprehensive cholesterol screening is recommended every one to two years. After turning 65, a cholesterol screening should be done every year, or more often if recommended by your doctor.
Regardless of age, a person who is undergoing high cholesterol treatment, has been diagnosed with high cholesterol, or is at risk of developing heart disease should get a lipid panel test more frequently. This includes individuals with a family history of high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Advanced lipidology goes beyond basic cholesterol screening and focuses on the comprehensive evaluation and management of lipids, using the most up-to-date research and techniques. At North Atlanta Heart & Vascular Center, we provide thorough lipid profile testing and cholesterol screening to accurately assess your risk of heart disease and tailor a treatment plan that's right for you.
There are two types of cholesterol:
A lipid panel will also measure triglycerides, which are another type of fat in your blood. Triglycerides can also contribute to heart disease if their levels are too high.
High cholesterol itself does not usually present any symptoms, which is why regular screenings are crucial in identifying and managing it. However, the buildup of plaques in your arteries can cause symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. If these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
There are several lifestyle changes you can make to help lower your cholesterol levels:
Your doctor may also prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications to help manage your levels.
Scheduling at North Atlanta Heart & Vascular Center is easy! With simple and convenient online scheduling, you can book a same- or next-day appointment with an expert lipidologist near you at one of our offices in Alpharetta, Cumming, or Dawsonville. Don't wait any longer—contact us today!