What is a cholesterol profile?
The waxy, fat-like material that makes up all of the body’s cells is called cholesterol. In addition to being produced by the liver, cholesterol can be found in some foods including dairy and meat. For the body to function correctly, cholesterol is necessary. However, excessive cholesterol, or having too much cholesterol in the blood, can adhere to the artery walls of your child or teen and cause the arteries to shrink or block. This may increase the risk of heart disease, including coronary artery disease, in your kid or adolescent.
What leads to childhood and teenage high cholesterol?
Children and teenagers with high cholesterol are primarily caused by three factors:
A diet deficient in nutrients, particularly in saturated fats
high cholesterol running in the family, particularly if one or both parents have the condition
Being overweight
High cholesterol in kids and teenagers can also be brought on by certain illnesses like diabetes, kidney disease, and some thyroid conditions.
What signs of elevated cholesterol are present in kids and teenagers?
Usually, there are no outward indications that your adolescent or child has excessive cholesterol.
What are the signs of elevated cholesterol in my child or adolescent?
To determine cholesterol levels, a blood test is available. The exam provides details regarding:
total cholesterol level. This represents the total quantity of cholesterol present in your blood. Both high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol are included.
low-density lipoprotein. Because LDL is the primary cause of cholesterol accumulation and artery blockage, it is sometimes referred to as “bad” cholesterol.
HDL cholesterol. Since HDL aids in the removal of cholesterol from your arteries, it is frequently referred to as “good” cholesterol.
Not HDL. This figure represents your total cholesterol less HDL. LDL and other forms of cholesterol, such as VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein), are included in your non-HDL.
triglycerides. This is an additional blood fat type that can increase heart disease risk.
The recommended cholesterol levels for individuals 19 years of age and under are
Kind of Healthy Cholesterol Level
A total of less than 170 mg/dL of cholesterol
Non-HDL < 120 mg/dL of LDLHDL of less than 110 mg/dLOver 45 mg/dL
Your kid or teen’s age, risk factors, and family history will determine when and how frequently they should get this test. The overall suggestions are as follows:
The age range for the first exam should be 9 to 11.
Every five years, children should take the exam once more.
If there is a history of high cholesterol, heart attacks, or stroke in the family, some children may begin this test as early as age 2.
What are the treatments for high cholesterol in children and teens?
Lifestyle changes are the main treatment for high cholesterol in children and teens. These changes include:
increasing one’s level of activity. This includes getting regular physical activity and spending less time sitting (in front of a television, at a computer, on a phone or tablet, etc.).
wholesome food. A diet to lower cholesterol includes limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, sugar, and cholesterol. It is also important to eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Losing weight, if your child or teen is overweight or has obesity.
If everyone in the family makes these changes, it will be easier for your child or teen to stick to them. It is also an opportunity to improve your health, and the health of the rest of your family.
Sometimes these lifestyle changes are not enough to lower your child or teen’s cholesterol. Their health care provider may consider giving your child or teen cholesterol medicines if they:
Are at least 10 years old.
Have an LDL (bad) cholesterol level that is higher than 190 mg/dL, even after six months of diet and exercise changes.
Have an LDL (bad) cholesterol level that is higher than 160 mg/dL AND are at high risk for heart disease.
Have familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). FH is an inherited disorder that causes very high levels of cholesterol in the blood.