Cholesterol Management at the OCHI Lipid Clinic

The Lipid Clinic is under the direction of Dr. Vangrow, M.D. On-site cholesterol testing is available for Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, Tryglycerides, blood sugar and liver function. Results are available within 10 minutes for immediate feedback to the patient. The Lipid clinic also manages all of the newest risk factors for coronary heart disease. This "advanced lipid testing", includes CRP, homocysteine, LDL particle size, HDL subtypes and PLAC.

On site cholesterol testing is available for Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, Tryglycerides, blood sugar and liver function. Results are available within 10 minutes for immediate feedback to the patient. The Lipid clinic also manages all of the newest risk factors for coronary heart disease. This "advanced lipid testing", includes CRP, homocysteine, LDL particle size, HDL subtypes and PLAC.

• For more information on cholesterol see: American Heart Association

• For more information on advanced lipid testing refer to atherotech.com

• Contact us for more information: 714 564-3300

What Is Cholesterol? Most health-conscious Americans know that high cholesterol is a leading risk factor for coronary heart disease. However, many people may not know what cholesterol is, what it does or even how to control cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance made by the liver and also supplied in the diet through animal products such as meats, poultry, fish and dairy products. Cholesterol is needed (in the body) to insulate nerves, make cell membranes and produce certain hormones. However, the body makes enough cholesterol, so any dietary cholesterol isn't needed.

Why should you care about your cholesterol level? High cholesterol is a leading risk factor for heart disease. Excess cholesterol in the bloodstream can form plaque (a thick, hard deposit) in artery walls. The cholesterol or plaque build-up causes arteries to become thicker, harder and less flexible, slowing down and sometimes blocking blood flow to the heart. When blood flow is restricted, angina (chest pain) can result. When blood flow to the heart is severely impaired and a clot stops blood flow completely, a heart attack  results.