The key benefits of going private are that you have access to not only regular, routine blood testing but also a tailored approach. It’s possible that if you have high cholesterol and a family history of cardiovascular diseases, for example, you would benefit from genetic testing, cardiac risk assessment and more, helping you stay healthy and in control of your future health.

Let’s start with the basics – what is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood that is essential for building healthy cells. However, having high levels of cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. Managing cholesterol levels is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Cholesterol travels through your bloodstream in two main forms: Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL).

• LDL (Bad Cholesterol): This type of cholesterol can build up in the walls of arteries, forming plaque that can restrict blood flow and lead to cardiovascular issues.
• HDL (Good Cholesterol): HDL cholesterol helps transport LDL cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be processed and removed from the body.

A healthy balance between these two types of cholesterol is vital. Ideally, you want low levels of LDL and higher levels of HDL. A private GP can play a significant role in helping you achieve this balance through various strategies.

So how do I achieve this?

One of the first steps in managing cholesterol is understanding your current levels. A private GP often has more flexibility and time to conduct comprehensive testing. This means they can provide:

1. Detailed Blood Tests
A private GP can order a complete lipid profile, measuring total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. In addition, they can order a wide range of complementary and informative tests including an advanced cardiac profile (available alone or as part of our Diamond Blood Profile) and refer you for a cardiologist review, CT angiogram, echocardiogram and much more.

Regular monitoring of these levels is essential in tracking your progress and making necessary adjustments to your plan.

2. Personal Health History Review
Before making recommendations, a private GP will take the time to gather your medical history, including any family history of heart disease, lifestyle factors, and existing health conditions. This information is crucial in developing a personalised management plan.

3. Tailored Lifestyle Assessment & Plan
Cholesterol management often begins with lifestyle changes. A private GP can provide tailored guidance that considers your specific circumstances that includes a detailed look at your diet and physical activity, your sleep, stress levels and more.

If your cholesterol level is elevated within a wider clinical picture of “metabolic syndrome”, which can also be coupled with excess weight, diabetes or higher risk of diabetes, elevated fasting insulin, a private GP will look at all of these factors and support you reducing your risk across the board of your cardiac risk features.

4. Medication Management
While lifestyle changes are often the first line of defence in managing cholesterol, some individuals may require medication. A private GP will:

• Evaluate the Need for Medication: Based on your cholesterol levels and overall health, a private GP can determine if you need cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins or other lipid-lowering agents.
• Monitor & Adjust Medications: If you are prescribed medication, your private GP will monitor your response to it, adjusting dosages as necessary to achieve the desired results while minimising side effects.
• Discuss Potential Side Effects: A private GP can provide information on what to expect from any prescribed medications and how to manage potential side effects, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.

5. Continuous Support & Follow-Up
Managing cholesterol is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing journey. A private GP can offer continuous support and follow-up appointments to ensure you stay on track with regular check-ins, an annual health screening, access to specialists such as cardiologists and endocrinologists and more.

Especially if you have a family history of heart disease or stroke, it’s vital that you take your cardiac risk seriously – your cholesterol levels are a vital part of that effort. It makes sense to know more and gain access to information about your health, and use that information to take control of your risk and future health.

For a Wellman or Wellwoman health screening to start your journey, or just for a simple blood test, we are here to be your support as you take these important steps towards great future health. Call or book online today.