top of page
Search

Have You Checked Your Cholesterol Recently?

  • Wilmont Pharmacy
  • Sep 3, 2019
  • 2 min read

September is National Cholesterol Education Month, and it is estimated more than 35 million Americans suffer from high cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your body and many foods. Your body needs cholesterol to function normally, but too much cholesterol can build up in your arteries. After a while, these deposits narrow your arteries, putting you at risk for heart disease and stroke.


High cholesterol usually doesn't have any symptoms. As a result, many people do not know that their cholesterol levels are too high. However, a simple blood test can be done to check your cholesterol levels. High cholesterol can be controlled through lifestyle changes or if it is not enough, through medications. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. If you think you may be at risk for high cholesterol, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.



What do my Cholesterol Numbers Mean?

After having your cholesterol checked, you should be given a document that lists your results. There are four basic values provided to all patients, which are Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (TG), High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), and Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL). Interestingly, all these numbers are related by a simple equation:


TC = HDL + LDL + (TG/5)


Total Cholesterol involves all elements of your body’s cholesterol and gives you an overall idea of where you are at. The goal for TC is <200mg/dl. HDL, also known as the good cholesterol, should be >40mg/dl in men and >50mg/dl in women. LDL, or the bad cholesterol, should be <100mg/dl. Finally, the goal for TGs is <150mg/dl. (all goals according to the National Institutes of Health)


The value that is elevated will determine your treatment recommendations. LDL is the primary number that physicians look at to determine the need for drug therapy. Make sure to discuss your results with your physician is any of the values is elevated.


If you have questions about managing your cholesterol, stop by our pharmacy - we're here for you!


 
 
 

Comments


Wilmont Pharmacy & Surgicals Logo
  • Facebook

199 Brook Street
Scarsdale, New York 10583


Phone: 914-725-1827

Fax: 914-725-6083

info@wilmontpharmacy.com

Mon–Fri: 9 am–6 pm | Sat: 9 am–3 pm

Logo_Wilmont_Since 1987_2022.png

©2025 The content on this website is owned by Wilmont Pharmacy and our licensors. Do not copy any content (including images) without consent from all parties.
All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy | Notice of Privacy Practices
Website Designed by GRX Marketing®

The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with questions concerning any medical condition. While we try to update our content often, medical information changes rapidly. Therefore, some information may be out of date.

bottom of page