A total cholesterol level of 280 mg/dL and triglycerides of 350 mg/dL are significantly elevated and increase the risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease, and pancreatitis. Management involves lifestyle changes and medical supervision. Clinically, you should limit saturated and trans fats, refined carbohydrates, and sugary foods; increase intake of fibre, fruits, vegetables, and omega-3–rich foods such as fatty fish; and maintain a healthy body weight. Regular aerobic exercise (at least 150 minutes per week), quitting smoking, and moderating alcohol intake are strongly recommended. Your doctor may prescribe lipid-lowering medicines such as statins (for high LDL cholesterol) or fibrates and omega-3 fatty acid supplements (for high triglycerides). Regular lipid profile monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare provider are essential for effective control and to prevent cardiovascular complications.

Yes, in many cases you can, but it depends on several factors such as your age, genetics, diet, and overall health. Eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, avoid fried and sugary foods, and include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 rich foods like fish and flaxseeds. Exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol. It is best to consult your doctor to assess your condition and follow their advice on diet, lifestyle changes, and, if needed, medication. Regular check-ups are essential for monitoring progress and protecting your heart health.

According to clinically validated guidelines from the FDA, NHS, and the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP ATP III), normal triglyceride levels are below 150 mg/dL. Levels between 150–199 mg/dL are borderline high, 200–499 mg/dL are high, and 500 mg/dL or above are very high. Elevated triglycerides increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially when combined with high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol or low HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Levels above 200 mg/dL are linked to greater cardiovascular risk, while those above 500 mg/dL can also raise the risk of pancreatitis. Maintaining triglycerides below 150 mg/dL through a healthy diet, exercise, and medical supervision is recommended for optimal heart health.

A heart attack often causes chest pain or pressure that may spread to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. It can also cause shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness, or a feeling of heaviness in the chest. A stroke, on the other hand, usually comes on suddenly and may cause weakness or numbness on one side of the body, drooping of the face, trouble speaking or understanding words, loss of balance, or a severe headache. Both conditions are medical emergencies, and immediate medical help should be sought if these signs appear.

Yes, high cholesterol can be hereditary, especially in people with familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that raises LDL cholesterol. If your heart rate is consistently above 100 beats per minute at rest, consult a doctor or cardiologist immediately, as it may indicate stress, thyroid problems, anaemia, dehydration, or a heart rhythm disorder. To protect your heart, eat a balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats, include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3–rich foods, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, limit alcohol, maintain a healthy weight, manage stress, and monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar regularly. Regular medical check-ups are essential for early prevention and management of heart disease.