By Dr. Sarah Rosanel, MD FACC, –
Community Health Contributor
Concierge Physician in Miami Florida – Internal Medicine Specialist/ Family Medicine and Cardiologist
Max is 34 years old—a devoted father of three and a driven local business owner. On the outside, he’s the picture of health. He exercises, eats well, doesn’t smoke, and keeps up with his kids on the soccer field.
But recently, during a casual weekend game, Max started to feel a strange tightness in his chest. It wasn’t painful, just uncomfortable. Brushing it off as stress or fatigue, he went about his busy schedule. But when the symptoms came back the following week, he decided to get checked.
Blood tests came back mostly normal—his cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight were all within a healthy range. But one little-known marker raised a red flag: Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). Max’s Lp(a) level was extremely high, putting him at risk for premature heart disease, despite his otherwise healthy lifestyle.
Thanks to early detection and a preventive care plan, Max is now managing his cardiovascular risk and staying healthy for his family. His story is a wake-up call to many: some risks are silent—and genetic.
What Is Lipoprotein(a)?
Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a cholesterol-carrying particle in your blood. It’s genetically inherited, meaning your levels are mostly determined at birth—and diet or exercise have little effect on it.
Unlike LDL (“bad cholesterol”), which can be improved through lifestyle changes, Lp(a) is stubborn. And when it’s high, it significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and valve disease—even in people who are otherwise healthy.
Why Is Lp(a) So Dangerous?
Lp(a) contributes to heart disease in multiple ways:
- Accelerates plaque buildup in arteries, leading to blockages
- Increases the risk of blood clots, which can trigger heart attacks or strokes
- Promotes inflammation in blood vessels, causing long-term damage
Who Should Get Tested?
Since Lp(a) is inherited, a one-time blood test is usually enough to assess your risk. It’s especially important if you have:
- A family history of early heart attacks or strokes
- A personal history of heart disease at a young age
- Cholesterol levels that don’t respond to diet, exercise, or medication
What Can Be Done?
Doctors focus on reducing overall heart risk
Medications That Help:
- Statins – Lower LDL cholesterol, even if they don’t lower Lp(a)
- PCSK9 Inhibitors – Injectable medications that lower both LDL and (slightly) Lp(a)
- Aspirin – Reduces clot risk in high-risk individuals
Lifestyle Still Matters:
- Stay active to improve circulation
- Eat a heart-healthy diet
- Control blood pressure and blood sugar
- Avoid smoking
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death—and in many cases, it strikes without warning. If Max hadn’t listened to his body and followed up, his story could have ended very differently.
If you or a loved one has a strong family history of heart disease, unexplained cholesterol issues, or a heart event at a young age, ask your doctor about Lp(a) testing. It could save your life.
Dr. Sarah Rosanel is a dedicated concierge physician based in Miami, FL, specializing in personalized healthcare tailored to the unique needs of her patients. With a holistic approach that blends traditional medicine, lifestyle interventions, and functional medicine, she empowers individuals to achieve optimal health and well-being.
As an expert in Concierge Medicine & Cardiology, Dr. Rosanel integrates cutting-edge medical treatments with holistic methodologies, ensuring comprehensive care that goes beyond symptom management to address the root causes of health concerns.
Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Rosanel is a devoted mother to Ariel, Zev, and Shirley, balancing her passion for healing with family life.
📅 Book an Appointment: Call or text (646) 467-4368
📍 Miami, Florida | ✉ [email protected]
