Cholesterol is a natural substance found in your blood. Having a high cholesterol level in your blood can increase your risk of developing heart disease.

Unfortunately, high cholesterol does not usually have symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as a “silent killer.” In order to protect yourself, it is important to know how to tell if your cholesterol level is high. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you spot the signs of high cholesterol.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. It plays a vital role in the production of hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that help digest fat.

Your body produces all the cholesterol it needs, but you can also obtain it from certain foods you eat, such as meat, eggs, and dairy products.

Types of cholesterol

There are two main types of cholesterol: HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein).

HDL is often referred to as the “good” cholesterol because it helps to remove LDL or “bad” cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

LDL, on the other hand, is considered to be the “bad” cholesterol because too much of it can build up in the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow freely and contributing to the formation of blood clots.

This can later cause a heart attack or stroke.

What is a high cholesterol level?

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that people keep their total cholesterol levels below 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

Levels between 200 and 239 mg/dL are considered borderline-high and levels of 240 mg/dL or higher are considered high.

However, it is important to remember that the “good” and “bad” cholesterol levels are also important.

An HDL level below 40 mg/dL is considered low while an HDL level of 60 mg/dL or higher can have a protective effect against heart disease.

An LDL level below 100 mg/dL is considered optimal, while levels between 100 and 129 mg/dL are considered near optimal.

Related Article Recognizing the Signs of High Cholesterol

Levels between 130 and 159 mg/dL are considered borderline-high, levels between 160 and 189 mg/dL are considered high, and levels of 190 mg/dL or higher are considered very high.

Factors that can raise cholesterol levels

There are several factors that can increase your risk of having high cholesterol:.

• Eating a diet high in saturated and trans fats
• Being overweight or obese
• Being physically inactive
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Having a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
• Having other health conditions, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, or kidney disease

How to tell if your cholesterol level is high

As previously mentioned, high cholesterol does not usually have symptoms. The only way to know if your cholesterol levels are high is to get a blood test. However, there are some signs that may indicate that you have high cholesterol:.

1. Yellow patches on or around your eyelids

If you notice yellowish, raised patches on your skin, especially around your eyelids, it could be a sign of high cholesterol. These patches, called xanthelasmata, are caused by the buildup of cholesterol under the skin.

2. Pain in your chest or arm

High cholesterol can increase your risk of developing heart disease. If you experience chest pain or discomfort, or pain in your arm, shoulder, or jaw, it could be a sign of a heart attack.

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.

3. Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet

High cholesterol can damage the blood vessels, which can lead to poor circulation. If you experience numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, it could be a sign of high cholesterol.

4. Headaches or dizziness

High cholesterol can also affect the blood flow to your brain, which can cause headaches or dizziness. If you experience these symptoms, it could be a sign of high cholesterol.

5. Shortness of breath

High cholesterol can increase your risk of developing heart disease, which can cause shortness of breath. If you experience shortness of breath, it could be a sign of high cholesterol.

How to lower your cholesterol levels

If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or medications to help lower your cholesterol levels. Here are some lifestyle changes that can help:.

• Eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit smoking

Medications that can help lower cholesterol levels include statins, bile acid sequestrants, niacin, and fibrates. Your doctor will determine which medication, if any, is right for you based on your overall health and medical history.

Conclusion

High cholesterol does not usually have symptoms, but there are some signs that may indicate that you have high cholesterol. Getting a blood test is the only way to know for sure.

If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or medications to help lower your cholesterol levels.