High Cholesterol

While high cholesterol is common, it can have serious effects on your heart and overall health if left untreated.

At Health Services of North Texas (HSNT), a trusted Community Health Center (CHC), our primary care providers help patients prevent, diagnose, and manage high cholesterol with affordable, personalized care.

What Is High Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But too much LDL (bad) cholesterol can build up in your arteries and block blood flow.

When bad cholesterol levels are too high, this is called high cholesterol. Over time, it can lead to serious problems like:

Heart disease
Heart attacks
Stroke

High cholesterol can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. It is more common in people with poor diets, inactive lifestyles, or a family history of heart disease.

Our primary care providers use blood tests and regular checkups to find high cholesterol early and help you protect your heart.

Causes & Symptoms of High Cholesterol

Causes

High cholesterol is often caused by:

Eating foods high in saturated or trans fats
Genetics
Smoking
Little physical activity
Being overweight
Having diabetes or other chronic conditions

Symptoms

High cholesterol usually has no symptoms. Many people do not know they have it until a blood test shows high levels. Because of this, it is often called a “silent condition.”

Regular checkups are the best way to find high cholesterol before it causes problems.

How Is High Cholesterol Diagnosed?

High cholesterol is diagnosed with a lipid profile blood test. This test measures:

LDL (bad cholesterol)
HDL (good cholesterol)
Total cholesterol
Triglycerides

Our care team reviews these results alongside your age, blood pressure, health history, and lifestyle. Together, we decide if treatment is needed and what steps are best for you.

Treatment Options for High Cholesterol

High cholesterol can often be managed with the right plan. At HSNT, your care may include:

Medications

Prescription medicines or injections, when needed
Chosen based on your test results and health needs

Lifestyle Support

Our providers will work with you on:

Heart-healthy eating
Increasing physical activity
Weight management
Quitting tobacco use

We take a whole-person approach, especially for patients with chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Managing High Cholesterol at Home

Simple steps can make a big difference:

Eat more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
Cut back on fried foods, fatty meats, and sugary snacks
Drink plenty of water
Exercise regularly
Reach and maintain a healthy weight
Stop smoking

Our team can connect you with ongoing primary care and support to help you stay on track.

High Cholesterol FAQs

How common is high cholesterol?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 40% of adults in the U.S. have high cholesterol.

Who is most at risk?

Risk increases with age, especially:

Men over 45
Women over 55 or after menopause

Other risk factors include:

Family history
Smoking
Poor diet
Lack of exercise
Obesity
Diabetes

Can HSNT help patients with chronic conditions?

Yes. HSNT is a quality leader in caring for patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Managing cholesterol is often a key part of that care.