High cholesterol, also known as hypercholesterolemia, is a condition in which blood cholesterol levels exceed normal values, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Often, high cholesterol has no obvious symptoms and can only be detected through blood tests. However, in some cases, symptoms may appear that suggest the presence of high cholesterol levels. Here are the 5 symptoms that can be associated with high cholesterol:
1. Chest Pain (Angina)
Description
- Chest pain or pressure: A common symptom of heart disease caused by clogged arteries.
- Location: The pain may radiate to the neck, jaw, back, or left arm.
- Duration: It can last from a few minutes to several hours.
Explanation
When the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque (made up of cholesterol and other substances), blood flow to the heart can be reduced, causing chest pain.
2. Xanthomas
Description
- Fat deposit: Yellowish bumps on the skin, usually around the eyes, elbows, knees, or buttocks.
- Dimension: Range from small nodules to larger masses.
Explanation
Xanthomas are buildups of cholesterol under the skin, which can indicate very high cholesterol levels. They are especially common in people with genetic conditions that cause hypercholesterolemia.
3. Xanthelasma
Description
- Yellowish plaques: Yellow or orange spots around the eyes.
- I wait: They can be flat or slightly raised.
Explanation
Xanthelasma is a cutaneous manifestation of hypercholesterolemia, which appears in the form of cholesterol deposits visible around the eyes.
4. Leg Pain (Intermittent Claudication)
Description
- Pain or cramps: Pain in the leg muscles during physical activity, which is relieved with rest.
- Location: Most common in the calves, but can also affect the thighs or buttocks.
Explanation
Plaque buildup in the arteries that supply blood to the legs can reduce blood flow, causing pain and muscle cramps during physical activity.
5. Cardiovascular problems
Description
- Myocardial infarction: Intense and prolonged chest pain, difficulty breathing, nausea, sweating and fainting.
- Stroke: Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; difficulty speaking or understanding language; blurred vision; loss of balance.
Explanation
High cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. These events occur when blood flow to a part of the heart or brain is blocked.
Conclusion
High cholesterol often has no obvious symptoms, but can manifest itself through indirect signs such as chest pain, xanthomas, xanthelasma, leg pain and cardiovascular problems. Early diagnosis and management of cholesterol are crucial to prevent serious complications. It is important to have regular cholesterol checks and adopt a healthy lifestyle to keep cholesterol levels under control.
FAQ
What are the main risk factors for high cholesterol?
Major risk factors include a diet high in saturated and trans fats, lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, advanced age, and a family history of hypercholesterolemia.
How can I prevent high cholesterol?
You can prevent high cholesterol by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.
What blood tests are used to measure cholesterol?
Blood tests to measure cholesterol include the lipid profile, which measures total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Can high cholesterol be treated with medications?
Yes, high cholesterol can be treated with medications such as statins, which help reduce blood cholesterol levels. However, it is also important to make lifestyle changes for optimal results.
