Cholesterol and Hypercholesterolemia
Elevated cholesterol levels significantly raise your risk of cardiovascular disease. We offer thorough diagnostics and develop a treatment plan tailored to you.
- Covered by insurance
- Often same-day appointment
What is cholesterol and hypercholesterolemia?
Cholesterol is a vital fat-like substance in the body — but elevated values significantly increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. We distinguish between "good" HDL cholesterol and "bad" LDL cholesterol, with LDL primarily responsible for vascular calcification. Hypercholesterolemia means permanently elevated cholesterol values. We offer thorough diagnostics and modern treatment options — from dietary advice to medication.
TREATMENT
How avi Helps You
More than fifty percent of the German population between the ages of 18 and 79 has too much cholesterol in their blood. The problem: this hypercholesterolaemia can have numerous health consequences, including the development of serious vascular conditions such as atherosclerosis. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are therefore essential. avi Medical supports you at all our locations.
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OVERVIEW
Diagnosis
The condition of hypercholesterolaemia is diagnosed in the blood when the total cholesterol level exceeds 190 mg/dL. From 240 mg/dL upwards, cholesterol is considered to be significantly elevated.
The precise composition of the elevated cholesterol can vary from individual to individual.
This is because cholesterol exists in the body in various 'transport forms'. The so-called 'good' cholesterol is HDL. 'Bad' cholesterol, on the other hand, is LDL, as it is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Depending on the nature of the abnormality, either the total cholesterol value or just the LDL may be elevated. In hypercholesterolaemia, the good cholesterol HDL is often actually reduced.
OVERVIEW
Causes & Risk Factors
The possible triggers of hypercholesterolaemia include:
- genetic predisposition (e.g. familial hypercholesterolaemia)
- an unhealthy diet (alcohol, excessive trans fats, and saturated fatty acids from highly processed foods)
- physical inactivity
- pre-existing conditions such as hypothyroidism, kidney damage, and type 2 diabetes mellitus
- pregnancy
- certain medications such as hormonal preparations and HIV/AIDS medications
OVERVIEW
Typical Symptoms
Hypercholesterolaemia typically progresses without symptoms for a long period and is frequently only discovered through associated and secondary manifestations. These include:
- atherosclerotic events (heart attack, stroke)
- lipid deposits in the skin (yellow patches or nodules)
- hepatic steatosis (fatty liver)
TREATMENT
Our Treatment Approach
The successful treatment of hypercholesterolaemia begins with early diagnosis. At avi, this involves a comprehensive screening consisting of the following components:
- taking a medical history (including family history)
- laboratory investigation (total cholesterol)
- if the result is abnormal: further determination of LDL, HDL, and triglyceride ('blood fat') levels
Subsequent therapy, depending on the severity of the hypercholesterolaemia, involves the following measures:
- lifestyle modification (healthy diet and sufficient physical activity)
- supplementary: medication (e.g. statins alone or in combination with other lipid-lowering agents)
In the final step, our experienced doctors ensure your continued health with comprehensive follow-up care. This includes:
- regular laboratory monitoring
- for high-risk patients additionally: supplementary investigations such as a liver ultrasound
HOW IT WORKS
How an Appointment Works
We take time for thorough diagnostics and an individual treatment plan.
- 1
History & Consultation
We discuss your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle in detail and take time for your questions.
~15 min
- 2
Clinical Examination
A thorough physical examination and, if needed, additional diagnostics (e.g., blood draw, ECG, ultrasound).
~15-20 min
- 3
Findings & Diagnosis
We discuss your results and explain what they mean for your health in clear terms.
~10 min
- 4
Treatment Plan & Follow-up
Together we develop an individual treatment plan and arrange follow-up appointments as needed.
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PREPARATION & AFTERCARE
Preparation & Aftercare
Before the appointment
Bring your insurance card
Please remember your health insurance card and any referral if applicable.
Pack previous findings
Current findings, doctor's letters, or imaging from previous treatments help us provide better care.
Medication list
A current list of your medications (incl. dosage) is very helpful.
After the appointment
Follow your treatment plan
Stick to the agreed treatment plan and medication intake.
Schedule follow-up
Arrange a follow-up appointment promptly for monitoring.
Report worsening symptoms
Contact us if your symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.
Costs & insurance
Covered by statutory insurance
Standard coverage for all statutory health insurance members.
Private / self-pay
on request