High Cholesterol

High Cholesterol services offered in Buckley, WA

High cholesterol often develops without noticeable symptoms, but it can have a significant impact on your long-term health. At White River Family Care, LLC, Michael Welsh, MD, and the caring providers in Buckley, Washington, offer comprehensive cholesterol management to help lower your risks and protect your heart. With personalized care plans, routine monitoring, and guidance on healthy lifestyle changes, the team works with you to bring your cholesterol levels under control and improve your overall well-being. Call the office or book an appointment online today to get started.

High Cholesterol Q & A

What is high cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in your blood that your body needs to build cells and produce hormones. However, when cholesterol levels are too high, fatty deposits can build up in your blood vessels, making it harder for blood to flow properly. This can increase your risk for serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke.

High cholesterol often develops without symptoms, which is why routine blood tests and preventive care are so important.

What causes high cholesterol?

High cholesterol can result from a combination of lifestyle factors, genetics, and other medical conditions. Common causes and risk factors include:

Eating a diet high in saturated or trans fats
Lack of regular physical activity
Being overweight or obese
Smoking
Diabetes or high blood pressure
Family history of high cholesterol or heart disease

Even if you feel healthy, you may still have elevated cholesterol, which is why regular screenings are recommended.

What health risks are linked to high cholesterol?

When left unmanaged, high cholesterol can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). This increases your risk for:

Heart attack
Stroke
Peripheral artery disease
High blood pressure
Chronic kidney disease

By monitoring and managing cholesterol, you can greatly reduce these risks and protect your cardiovascular health.

How is high cholesterol managed?

At White River Family Care, LLC, your provider creates a personalized plan based on your cholesterol levels, overall health, and individual risk factors. Management strategies may include:

Lifestyle counseling: guidance on diet, exercise, and weight management
Medication: cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as statins, if needed
Routine monitoring: regular blood tests to track progress
Preventive care: addressing related risks like high blood pressure or diabetes

Your provider works with you to create an achievable plan that supports long-term health and reduces your risk for complications.

What can I expect at a cholesterol management appointment?

During your appointment, your provider reviews your medical history, family history, and lifestyle habits. Blood work will be performed to measure your cholesterol levels, including LDL (“bad” cholesterol), HDL (“good” cholesterol), and triglycerides.

Together, you’ll discuss results and create a tailored care plan. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.

Take a proactive step toward protecting your heart health. Call White River Family Care, LLC, or schedule an appointment online today to begin managing your cholesterol.