High cholesterol is a common health problem and a major risk factor for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. The medical name for high cholesterol is lipid disorder or hypercholesterolemia. When your cholesterol level is high, your risk of heart problems also increases.
Cholesterol is a type of fat that the body needs to work properly. It helps build cell walls, make hormones, and support digestion. Our liver can make all the cholesterol our body needs. Cholesterol is not always bad, but problems start when the level becomes too high.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. It helps make hormones and vitamin D and helps digest food. But too much cholesterol in the blood can be harmful and can damage your heart and blood vessels.
There are two main types of cholesterol you should know about. HDL cholesterol is called “good” cholesterol. It helps remove bad cholesterol from the blood and keeps the arteries clean. LDL cholesterol is called “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the arteries and block blood flow.
Keeping cholesterol levels under control is important for a healthy heart and a healthy life.
What is the Link Between High Cholesterol and Heart Disease?
High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. When LDL (bad) cholesterol is high, it can build up in the arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque makes the arteries narrow and slows blood flow to the heart. This can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
High cholesterol can also cause other health problems, like high blood pressure and diabetes. These conditions further increase the risk of heart disease.
Some people have a higher risk of heart disease. This includes people with a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes. People who do not exercise much, eat unhealthy foods high in fats, or have a body weight above a healthy range are also at higher risk.
Symptoms of Heart Disease
Heart disease often develops without clear symptoms. Many people may not notice any signs at first. However, some common symptoms to watch for include:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
- Feeling tired or weak
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help right away. A cholesterol specialist in London can help find the cause and suggest the right treatment based on your health history, symptoms, and risk factors.