What Every Woman Should Know About HPV
HPV affects millions, but it is preventable. Learn the latest screening guidelines and how our board-certified physicians help you reduce your risk of cervical cancer.
Understanding Lipid Panels
A lipid panel is a common blood test that helps our team at Internal Medicine of Greater New Haven check the levels of fat in your blood. These fats, known as lipids, are essential for your body to function, but having too many can increase your risk of heart disease. We use this test to get a clear picture of your cardiovascular health.
Whether you visit us in Cheshire, Guilford, Hamden, Milford, North Haven, Meriden, or Wallingford, our medical team uses these results to create a personalized wellness plan.
Understanding these numbers doesn't have to be complicated.
Why your cholesterol levels matter
Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body uses to build cells and make hormones. Your liver makes all the cholesterol you need, but you also get it from the foods you eat. When there’s an excess, it can build up in your arteries.
Nearly 10% of adults in the United States have high total cholesterol levels of 240 mg/dL or higher. High cholesterol often has no symptoms, so a lipid panel is the only way to know if you’re at risk. Our specialists look at four specific measurements during this test:
- Total cholesterol: The overall amount of cholesterol in your blood.
- LDL (low-density lipoprotein): Also called "bad cholesterol," it can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries.
- HDL (high-density lipoprotein): This is known as good cholesterol because it helps remove bad cholesterol from your arteries and return it to the liver.
- Triglycerides: A type of fat used for energy. High levels are often linked to a higher risk of heart disease or stroke.
How to prepare for your test
To get the most accurate results, you need to fast for nine to 12 hours before your blood draw. This means you shouldn't eat or drink anything except water. Fasting is especially important for measuring your triglycerides, as food can cause those levels to spike temporarily.
Our experts recommend regular screening based on your age and health history. We include a lipid panel with your annual physical. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, we may suggest more frequent testing.
Managing your results with our team
If your numbers aren't in the healthy range, don’t panic. Many patients find success by making small, consistent changes. Among these:
- Eat more fiber: Foods like oats, beans, and fruits help lower LDL levels.
- Stay active: Regular exercise can help raise your HDL (good) cholesterol.
- Limit saturated fats: Reducing red meat and full-fat dairy can lower your bad cholesterol.
- Quit smoking: Stopping tobacco use improves your HDL levels and protects your artery walls.
If lifestyle changes aren't enough, we may prescribe medication to help manage your levels. We'll work with you to monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed to keep your heart healthy.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, contact Internal Medicine of Greater New Haven online or by phone to schedule your physical.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Who Should Have a Bone Density Test and How Often?
Bone health is vital for independence as you age. Our experts at Internal Medicine of Greater New Haven explain who needs a DEXA scan and how often to schedule one. Stay ahead of osteopenia and osteoporosis with these guidelines.
5 Early Signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Around 16 million people in the United States are diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and many more may not know they’re suffering from it. Here are five early signs you could have COPD.
Is It a Cold or Allergies? 5 Telltale Signs
You’re sneezing, you’re congested, but is it a cold or allergies? It’s not always apparent at first, but these five telltale signs can help you decipher if you’re dealing with the common cold or seasonal allergies.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Annual Physical Exam
Good health isn’t a given; it’s an ongoing pursuit that requires personal awareness, daily practice, and expert guidance. Your annual wellness exam is a key part of your current and long-term health equation — here’s why you should never skip it.
Who Needs a Pneumonia Vaccine and How Often?
The recent news and media coverage about vaccines has created some confusion about who should be vaccinated, for what, and when. Here we discuss the pneumonia vaccine and when it matters.