Understanding Your Cholesterol Management Options

Overview

Managing cholesterol effectively involves multiple treatment approaches, each tailored to your specific situation and risk factors.

Lifestyle Modifications

Diet Changes

• Reduce saturated fat intake
• Increase fiber consumption
• Add heart-healthy foods
  • Omega-3 rich fish
  • Whole grains
  • Nuts and seeds

Physical Activity

• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly
• Include both cardio and strength training
• Start gradually and build up intensity

Medication Options

Statins

• First-line treatment for high cholesterol
• Brands include:
  • Atorvastatin (Lipitor®)
  • Rosuvastatin (Crestor®)
  • Simvastatin (Zocor®)

Non-Statin Medications

1. Ezetimibe (Zetia®)
2. PCSK9 inhibitors
3. Bile acid sequestrants
4. Fibrates

Monitoring and Follow-up

• Regular lipid panel tests
• Lifestyle modification tracking
• Medication adherence assessment
• Side effect monitoring

Risk Factor Management

• Blood pressure control
• Diabetes management
• Smoking cessation
• Weight management

When to Contact Your Doctor

• Unexplained muscle pain
• Difficulty tolerating medications
• Questions about side effects
• Changes in health status