To reduce your risk of heart disease, you must reduce as many risk factors as possible. But sometimes lifestyle changes are not enough. Even if you take positive steps and feel better, it still may not be quite enough to reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke. If you answered yes to any of the questions at the beginning of this brochure, your doctor may request blood tests to determine your cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The higher the level of cholesterol in your blood, the greater your risk of heart disease.
Many factors can affect cholesterol levels.
For example, if you have recently had a heart attack, you will have to wait about six weeks before having your cholesterol levels checked. Your doctor may prescribe medication if your cholesterol levels are high. When combined with the lifestyle changes out-lined here, medication can help to reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Cholesterol is a complex, fat-like substance which is produced naturally in the liver and is also present in foods that contain animal fat. The human body could not function without cholesterol.