LDL Cholesterol - #18612
Doctor, I often hear about cholesterol being linked to heart disease, but I find the details quite confusing. Could you explain what LDL cholesterol is and why it is considered the "bad" cholesterol? I’ve read that cholesterol isn’t entirely harmful because our body needs it for certain functions. So, what exactly makes LDL cholesterol dangerous? Also, what are the ideal levels of LDL cholesterol for different age groups? I've seen conflicting information about what is considered "normal" or "healthy." Some sources say an LDL level below 100 mg/dL is good, while others suggest stricter limits for people with heart disease. Can you clarify the best target range? Another concern I have is about food and lifestyle. Many people say that dietary cholesterol doesn't affect blood cholesterol levels as much as we once thought. Is this true? For example, are eggs, dairy, and red meat actually harmful for LDL levels, or is it more about overall diet balance? I also hear a lot about HDL cholesterol, the "good" cholesterol. How does it counteract LDL, and is there an ideal ratio between the two? Some say that just having high HDL levels can protect against heart disease, even if LDL is a bit high. Is this accurate? Regarding treatments, when should someone consider medication like statins to lower LDL cholesterol? Are there natural ways, such as diet, exercise, or supplements like omega-3, that can significantly reduce LDL without medication? And for someone who has a family history of high cholesterol, should they start monitoring their levels at a younger age? I also want to understand how other health conditions, like diabetes or thyroid disorders, influence LDL cholesterol. Are there any hidden factors that people should be aware of? Finally, what are the early warning signs of cholesterol-related health problems? Can high LDL levels cause noticeable symptoms, or is it usually detected only through blood tests? Many people think they will feel something when their cholesterol is high, but I’ve heard that heart disease can develop silently over years. I would really appreciate your expert insight into these concerns because I want to take proactive steps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and avoid long-term risks.
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arteriosclerosis meaning - #18990
I’ve been hearing a lot about arteriosclerosis lately, especially in relation to heart health, but I’m not sure what it really means and how it affects the body. From what I understand, it has something to do with the hardening of the arteries, but I’d like to know more about the causes, symptoms, and risks associated with this condition. Could you explain what arteriosclerosis is, how it develops, and why it’s such a concern for heart health? From what I gather, arteriosclerosis involves the thickening and stiffening of the arterial walls, but what causes this process to begin? Are factors like high blood pressure, smoking, or high cholesterol common contributors, or are there other risk factors that play a role in the development of arteriosclerosis? How does this condition affect blood flow, and what are the potential long-term consequences for the cardiovascular system? What are the early signs or symptoms of arteriosclerosis? I’ve heard that it often develops gradually and can go unnoticed for years. Are there warning signs that I should look out for, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, and how are these symptoms related to the reduced blood flow caused by the condition? How is arteriosclerosis diagnosed? Are there specific tests or imaging studies that can detect early signs of arterial stiffness or narrowing? I understand that a doctor might recommend tests like an ultrasound or CT scan, but what exactly do these tests show, and how do they help confirm the presence of arteriosclerosis? Lastly, what are the treatment options for arteriosclerosis? If the condition is diagnosed early, are there medications or lifestyle changes that can help slow its progression and reduce the risk of complications, such as stroke or heart attack? Can a healthier diet, exercise, and medications like statins help improve arterial health?
On the Ask Ayurveda service, online consultations with Ayurvedic doctors for General medicine are available for any issue that concerns you. Expert doctors provide consultations around the clock and for free. Ask your question and get an answer right away!