Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. It is essential for our body to function properly, but high levels of cholesterol can cause serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke.
High cholesterol levels can be genetic, or they can be caused by a lack of exercise, smoking, and a poor diet.
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a type of fat or lipid that is produced naturally by the liver. It is also found in some of the foods we eat. Cholesterol is carried through the bloodstream by molecules called lipoproteins.
There are two types of lipoproteins: low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). LDLs are often called “bad” cholesterol, as they can build up in the walls of arteries, leading to a variety of health problems.
HDLs are sometimes called “good” cholesterol as they help to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, lowering the risk of heart disease.
What are the Signs of High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol itself does not usually cause any signs or symptoms, so many people with high cholesterol may not know they have it.
However, high cholesterol can cause damage to the arteries over time, which can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. Some signs of high cholesterol include:.
1. Chest Pain
Chest pain is a common symptom of high cholesterol, especially in people with underlying heart conditions.
Chest pain can occur when the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries restricts the flow of blood to the heart, causing the muscles to become starved of oxygen. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and even heart attacks.
2. Numbness or Tingling in the Hands or Feet
High cholesterol can restrict blood flow to the extremities, leading to numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.
This can be a sign of peripheral artery disease, which occurs when cholesterol buildup causes the arteries in the legs to narrow and harden, reducing blood flow to the legs and feet.
3. Difficulty Walking or Climbing Stairs
People with high cholesterol may experience difficulty walking or climbing stairs due to peripheral artery disease. This can be caused by the narrowing of the arteries in the legs, which reduces blood flow to the muscles.
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People with peripheral artery disease may also experience cramps in their legs, especially during exercise.
4. Xanthelasma
Xanthelasma is a skin condition that manifests as yellowish patches or bumps on the eyelids. These patches are caused by the accumulation of cholesterol in the skin and are often seen in people with high cholesterol levels.
Although they are not harmful, they can be a sign of underlying health problems.
5. Yellowish Deposits on Tendons
High levels of cholesterol can cause yellowish deposits to accumulate on the tendons, especially in the hands and feet. These deposits are called xanthomas and can sometimes be painful or limit mobility.
6. Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can be a sign of a heart attack, especially in women. Women are more likely than men to experience “atypical” symptoms of a heart attack, which can include pain in the shoulders, jaw, or upper back.
High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, making it important to pay attention to any unusual symptoms.
How is High Cholesterol Diagnosed?
High cholesterol is typically diagnosed with a simple blood test called a lipid panel. This test measures the levels of cholesterol and other fats in the bloodstream.
It is recommended that all adults have their cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years. People with a family history of high cholesterol, heart disease, or stroke may need to be tested more frequently.
How is High Cholesterol Treated?
High cholesterol can be managed through lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake. In some cases, medication may be necessary to help lower cholesterol levels.
Statins are a type of medication that can effectively lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Other medication options include bile acid sequestrants, niacin, and fibrates.
Conclusion
High cholesterol can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke. However, many people with high cholesterol may not know they have it because it does not usually cause any signs or symptoms.
That is why it is important to have your cholesterol levels tested regularly, especially if you have a family history of high cholesterol or other risk factors for heart disease. By making lifestyle changes and taking medication if necessary, you can effectively manage your cholesterol levels and lower your risk of serious health problems.
