Know Your Cholesterol Numbers | Heart Health in Dallas

Cholesterol often gets a bad reputation, but the truth is your body needs it to function properly. Cholesterol helps build cells, produce hormones, and support digestion. Problems arise, however, when cholesterol levels become unbalanced. Too much of the wrong type can quietly increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions.

The Basics of Cholesterol

Cholesterol travels through your bloodstream attached to proteins called lipoproteins. A standard lipid panel measures several key values that together paint a picture of your cardiovascular risk.

At Neighborhood Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, we help patients understand their cholesterol numbers is an important part of preventive care. With guidance from Dr. McElya, patients can take proactive steps to protect their heart health before problems develop.

LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein)

Often called “bad” cholesterol, LDL can build up along artery walls and form plaque. Over time, this buildup narrows arteries and restricts blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. For most adults, an LDL level below 100 mg/dL is considered ideal.

HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein)

HDL is known as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove excess LDL from the bloodstream. Higher HDL levels are protective, with 60 mg/dL or higher associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

Total Cholesterol

This number reflects your combined LDL, HDL, and a portion of your triglycerides. A total cholesterol level under 200 mg/dL is generally considered healthy.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood. Elevated levels can increase heart disease risk, especially when combined with high LDL or low HDL. A healthy goal is less than 150 mg/dL.

Why Cholesterol Deserves Attention Even Without Symptoms

High cholesterol rarely causes noticeable symptoms. Many people feel perfectly fine while plaque continues to accumulate inside their arteries. This is why cholesterol is often referred to as a “silent” risk factor.

Dr. McElya emphasizes the importance of routine screenings, especially for adults with risk factors such as family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle. Early detection allows patients to take action before cholesterol leads to more serious complications.

What Influences Your Cholesterol Levels?

Cholesterol levels are shaped by a combination of genetics and lifestyle habits. Diet plays a role, particularly diets high in saturated fats, processed foods, and added sugars. Physical inactivity, smoking, poor sleep, and chronic stress can also negatively affect cholesterol.

However, genetics can influence cholesterol levels even in people who eat well and stay active. That’s why personalized medical guidance is so important. At Neighborhood Medical Center, Dr. McElya looks beyond the numbers to understand what may be driving each patient’s results.

Managing Cholesterol Through Lifestyle Changes

For many patients, lifestyle changes are the first step in improving cholesterol levels. Small, consistent adjustments can lead to meaningful improvements over time.

• Eating more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
• Choosing healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish
• Reducing intake of processed foods and saturated fats
• Increasing physical activity, even through simple activities like walking
• Improving sleep quality and managing stress

Dr. McElya works closely with patients to develop realistic goals that fit into their daily routines, making changes easier to maintain long term.

When Medication May Be Part of the Plan

In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough to reach healthy cholesterol levels, particularly for patients with higher cardiovascular risk or genetic factors. Medication may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

At Neighborhood Medical Center, medication decisions are made thoughtfully and personalized to each patient. Our team monitors progress carefully, adjusting treatment as needed to ensure both safety and effectiveness.

The Value of Ongoing Monitoring

Cholesterol management is not a one-time event. Regular follow-up appointments and lab work allow patients to track progress and stay informed about their heart health. Monitoring also helps catch changes early, before they lead to more serious issues.

By partnering with Neighborhood Medical Center, patients gain a long-term approach to cardiovascular wellness—not just a snapshot of their health today.

Stay Proactive About Your Heart Health

Understanding your cholesterol numbers is a powerful step toward protecting your heart and overall health. Whether you’re reviewing results for the first time or managing long-standing cholesterol concerns, personalized medical care can make a meaningful difference.

Dr. McElya and the team are here to help you understand your risks, improve your numbers, and stay proactive about your health. Book an appointment today at Neighborhood Medical Center in Dallas, Texas to have your cholesterol checked and receive personalized guidance tailored to your health needs.