An example of how to advocate for yourself…
Recently, an individual told me they had completed their test work. Their medical provider contacted them back to inform them their cholesterol was high. They asked me at that time what they needed to do. I asked, “What were you told to do about it?” They said, “I was not told anything.” I proceeded to ask what part of their cholesterol was high. They said, “I do not know; that’s all I was told.”
QUESTIONS – How can you advocate for yourself in this situation? Ask questions. Advocating for yourself would look like:
- ✔ Can you tell me more about what that high cholesterol means?
- ✔ How does it affect my health?
- ✔ What do I need to do for it?
- ✔ Do you have any suggestions on what my plan should be moving ahead?
- ✔ What is the next step with this? What action do I need to take and follow back up with? How will I know it is back to normal?
You have heard the words “know your numbers”. Below is what you should know when you are told your cholesterol is high.
LIPID PANEL – Ask for the total breakdown of the cholesterol level. It’s called a lipid panel breakdown.
◼ Total Cholesterol—The overall cholesterol level. (Below 200 mg/dL)
◼ LDL (Low-density lipoprotein)—The “bad cholesterol”. (Below 100 mg/dL or below 70 mg/dL for people who have diabetes)
◼ HDL (High-density lipoprotein)—The “good cholesterol”. (Above 60 mg/dL)
◼ Triglycerides—This level, if high, can also increase your heart attack risk. (Below 150 mg/dL)
Cholesterol levels can be affected by:
- Diet
- Exercise
- Weight
- Genetics
- Medical Conditions
- Smoking
- Alcohol
ACTIONS – You can act on some of those that you can. For example:
- Diet—Increase fiber (whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes). Eat healthy fats (olive oil, avocados, nuts, fatty fish). Reduce saturated and trans fats (fried foods, processed snacks). Etc.,
- Exercise—aim for at least 30 minutes or more of moderate activity most days of the week.
- Weight—BMI has been the standard that has been used. This does not consider your body structure. There are other things to look at also, like waist circumference and other lab work.
- Medication if all other measures have been exhausted to get it down.
By looking at those few adaptations, plan some action steps to move in a positive direction. Some of what I hear is, “I just don’t know where to start.” In this situation, the health coach helps you. Just being told to watch something is not enough. The health coach will spend time with you and go into more detail about your current situation.
Health coaches and advocates are needed to navigate the changes that we all will surely face. There is a better way to have some control over your health. If you would like to work with me on some of your conditions, consider reaching out. You’re not alone! Be proactive!
💚 Grab your nurse health coach today to start taking your healthcare in a more positive direction. That is what being proactive is about. There is a light and better outcomes at the end of the tunnel. Just walk toward it.
Have a wonderful day, get your cholesterol checked, and advocate for your health.
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