High Cholesterol in Children
Overview
Causes
Causes may be:
- Genetics
- Being overweight or obese
- A diet that is high in fat and cholesterol
- Low activity levels
Risk Factors
Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:
- Obesity
- Having a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, or stroke
- Having high blood pressure
- Having certain health problems, such as diabetes, kidney disease , and underactive thyroid
- Some medicines, such as steroids, isotretinoin (an acne medicine), beta-blockers, protease inhibitors, diuretics, and cyclosporin
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Treatments
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to reach and stay at a healthy cholesterol level. This will lower the risk of future health problems.
Choices are:
- Eating a healthful diet that is low in fat and cholesterol
- Reaching and staying at a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
Children with very high cholesterol and those who are at risk for heart disease may be given cholesterol-lowering medicine, such as statins.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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