Does your latest blood test reveal high cholesterol? Or do you simply want to check in on your cardiovascular health? High cholesterol affects nearly one in two Canadian adults and is one of the main risk factors for heart disease. At Virtuel MD, our CMQ-certified doctors analyze your lipid profile, prescribe appropriate treatment, and provide online follow-up. All without traveling or waiting at a clinic.
See a doctor today to manage your cholesterol and protect your cardiovascular health.
Cholesterol is a fatty substance naturally produced by the liver and found in certain foods. It is essential for the proper functioning of the body. The problem arises when its level in the blood becomes too high, increasing the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries and serious cardiovascular diseases.
Good and bad cholesterol
LDL, commonly known as bad cholesterol, builds up on artery walls and forms plaques that narrow blood vessels. HDL, good cholesterol, transports excess cholesterol to the liver for elimination. Triglycerides complete the lipid profile, and high levels also represent a significant cardiovascular risk factor.
The main causes :
Dietary and behavioral causes: diet rich in saturated and trans fats, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and overweight.
Medical and genetic causes: hypothyroidism, diabetes, kidney disease, familial hypercholesterolemia - an inherited genetic condition that can cause very high cholesterol from a young age.
Important to know:
High cholesterol is a silent condition – it doesn't cause any symptoms until a cardiovascular complication occurs. That's why regular lipid testing is essential, especially if you also suffer from’Hypertension or type 2 diabetes, two conditions that, combined with high cholesterol, multiply the cardiovascular risk.
Cholesterol generally does not cause direct symptoms. Here are the indirect signs that should prompt you to consult a doctor.
If a close relative had a heart attack or stroke before age 55 for men or 65 for women, your risk of high cholesterol is significantly higher.
Muscle pain in the legs when walking or exercising can indicate arteritis (cholesterol-related narrowing of the arteries in the lower limbs).
Yellowish deposits visible under the skin, around the eyes, or on tendons, which can indicate very high cholesterol levels, often of genetic origin.
These symptoms may indicate that cholesterol has already caused a narrowing of the coronary arteries and require immediate medical evaluation.
The vast majority of people with high cholesterol have no symptoms. Regular blood tests are the only way to detect this condition before it causes damage.
- Severe chest pain or pressure in the chest - Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, or back - Difficulty speaking, sudden weakness on one side of the body - Sudden and severe shortness of breath. **These symptoms may indicate a heart attack or stroke requiring immediate intervention.**
Find essential information about cholesterol in our FAQ. For a personalized diagnosis and appropriate treatment, consult a doctor online today.
A desirable total cholesterol level is below 5.2 mmol/L. LDL should ideally be less than 3.5 mmol/L, and HDL above 1.0 mmol/L for men and 1.3 mmol/L for women. These target values vary depending on your overall cardiovascular risk profile. Our doctors interpret your results in the context of your overall health.
For slightly elevated cholesterol, lifestyle modifications may be sufficient—a diet low in saturated fats, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, and weight loss. For moderately to highly elevated cholesterol, medication such as statins is often necessary as a supplement. Our doctors will guide you according to your profile.
Yes. Our doctors can order a lipid panel, analyze your results, and prescribe appropriate treatment during an online consultation. Renewal of an existing prescription is also possible.
Statins are among the most studied drugs in the world and are generally well-tolerated. Some people may experience mild muscle pain. Our doctors evaluate your complete profile before any prescription and ensure follow-up to adjust treatment if necessary.
The frequency of lipid profiles varies according to your age, history, and risk factors. Our doctors will guide you on the best follow-up schedule for your personal situation.
An online medical consultation with Virtuel MD starts at $139 $. Our doctors analyze your lipid panel, prescribe treatment if necessary, and provide follow-up care, all from the comfort of your home.
Absolutely. All your medical consultations and data are protected and stored in Canada, in compliance with Bill 25 and PIPEDA.
Consult quickly, in complete confidentiality, from the comfort of your home. Our healthcare professionals are here to support you with attentiveness, expertise and care.
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