High cholesterol is a common but serious cardiovascular condition that affects millions of Americans. Cholesterol, a waxy substance produced by the liver, intestines, and nearly all tissues in the body, plays essential roles in hormone production, vitamin D synthesis, and the creation of bile acids needed to digest fats. It also helps protect cell membranes from temperature changes.
While your body needs cholesterol to function properly, too much of it—particularly “bad” LDL cholesterol—can accumulate in your arteries, restricting blood flow and significantly increasing your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other complications. The good news is that high cholesterol often responds well to lifestyle modifications and, when necessary, medication.
At Prima Medicine, board-certified internist Dr. Chethana Rao and her experienced team provide comprehensive cholesterol management for patients throughout Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, Virginia. As part of Privia Medical Group, our practice combines advanced diagnostic testing with personalized treatment plans designed to lower your cholesterol levels and protect your long-term cardiovascular health.
Understanding Your Cholesterol Numbers
A comprehensive lipid panel measures different types of cholesterol in your blood. Understanding these numbers is crucial for assessing your cardiovascular risk:
Your total cholesterol test combines all these measurements to provide an overall picture of your cardiovascular risk. At Prima Medicine, we use these results along with other health factors to create your personalized treatment strategy.
Risk Factors for High Cholesterol
Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing high cholesterol:
- Poor diet high in saturated fats and trans fats
- Lack of regular physical activity
- Obesity or being overweight
- Smoking and tobacco use
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes or prediabetes
- Family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
- Age (risk increases with age)
Treatment Options for High Cholesterol
At Prima Medicine, we develop individualized treatment plans based on your specific cholesterol levels, overall health, and cardiovascular risk factors. Treatment typically includes:
Lifestyle Modifications
A heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, regular exercise, weight management, and smoking cessation can significantly improve cholesterol levels. For some patients, these changes alone may be sufficient to achieve target cholesterol goals.
Medications
When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, several effective medications are available, including:
- Statins to reduce LDL cholesterol production
- Bile acid sequestrants to eliminate cholesterol through bile acids
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
- PCSK9 inhibitors for patients who need additional LDL reduction
- Fibrates to lower triglycerides
- Niacin to raise HDL and lower LDL levels
Dr. Rao carefully evaluates potential benefits and side effects to recommend the safest, most effective treatment for your situation.
Why Choose Prima Medicine?
Prima Medicine provides thoughtful, personalized cardiovascular care guided by experienced physicians and a strong commitment to patient relationships. The practice is led by Dr. Chethana Rao, a board-certified internal medicine physician who was recognized by her peers as a Washingtonian magazine Top Doc. Our providers take the time to review your cholesterol results carefully, explain what they mean for your health, and help you understand the next steps in your care.
As a member of Privia Medical Group, Prima Medicine works within a network that supports coordinated care and easy referrals to specialists when needed. Patients also benefit from advanced diagnostic testing and convenient scheduling options, including same-day and weekend appointments. Whether you are addressing high cholesterol for the first time or continuing long-term cardiovascular care, our team focuses on helping you protect and support your heart health over time.
Schedule Your Cholesterol Screening Today
Early detection and management of high cholesterol can dramatically reduce your risk of serious cardiovascular complications. Prima Medicine serves patients in Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, VA. Call (703) 870-3750 or book online to schedule your comprehensive cholesterol evaluation and take control of your heart health today.
