High Cholesterol
What is High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol is a condition where too much cholesterol is present in the blood. Cholesterol levels that are too high can cause deposits to build up in your arteries, narrowing or blocking them and leading to a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.
What are the Causes of High Cholesterol?
There are several factors that can influence your cholesterol levels. These include lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption, and also genetic factors. High cholesterol can be a hereditary condition, so it’s important to discuss your family health history with your doctor.
What are the Symptoms of High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol typically does not cause any symptoms, so it’s important to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly, especially if you’re at risk of developing the condition. You may be at risk if you:
- Are overweight or obese
- Have a family history of high cholesterol
- Eat a diet high in saturated fats (red meats, full-fat dairy products, processed foods)
- Drink excessive amounts of alcohol
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle
What are the Complications of High Cholesterol?
Untreated high cholesterol can lead to a variety of complications, including:
- Significant blockage of the coronary arteries, leading to heart attack
- Narrowing of the arteries leading to the extremities, leading to peripheral artery disease
- Stroke
- Heart failure, arrhythmias, or other heart-related conditions
How is High Cholesterol Treated?
The most important treatment for high cholesterol is lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, and quitting smoking. For some people, medications may also be necessary. Commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications include statins, fibrates, and bile acid sequestrants.