What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is commonly known as lipid and is an important part of our body’s cells. It is essential for regular body function, such as the formation of cell membranes, hormones, and vitamin D.
Low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein are two types of lipoproteins that transport cholesterol through the bloodstream.
Lipoprotein LDL transports cholesterol to where it is needed in the body. LDL is referred to as “bad cholesterol”. Arterial disease is caused by an excess of cholesterol in the arterial walls that the body is unable to use and is one of the symptoms of high cholesterol.
On the other hand, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) carries cholesterol from cells to the liver. It eventually decomposes or is removed from the body as waste. HDL is referred to as “good cholesterol” and larger quantities are preferred.
What are the symptoms of high cholesterol?
High cholesterol typically does not cause any symptoms and is often referred to as a “silent” disease. However, if left untreated, high cholesterol can lead to serious health complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
Symptoms of these complications may include:
- Chest pain (angina): This is a feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in your chest. It is often caused by narrowed or blocked arteries (coronary arteries) that supply your heart with blood.
- Shortness of breath: This may occur with or without exertion. It can be a sign of heart failure, which is a condition in which your heart is not pumping blood efficiently.
- Pain in your legs or feet: This may be caused by narrowed or blocked arteries in your legs (peripheral artery disease).
- Xanthelasmata: These are yellowish deposits of fat that can form around your eyelids. They are a sign of very high cholesterol levels.
- Arcus senilis: This is a grayish-white ring around the iris of your eye. It is a sign of high cholesterol levels and is more common in older adults.
If you have high cholesterol, your organs may store excess cholesterol in your arteries. These are the blood vessels that transfer oxygen and nutrients from your heart to the rest of your body.
Plaque is the accumulation of cholesterol in your arteries. It hardens and narrows the arteries over time. Large plaque deposits can totally obstruct an artery. They can also disintegrate, resulting in the creation of a blood clot that blocks blood flow
A blocked artery to the heart might result in a heart attack. A stroke can be caused by a clogged artery leading to the brain.
Diagnosis of High cholesterol
Lipid Profile Blood Test: The lipid profile blood test is a base for identifying elevated cholesterol. This comprehensive panel assesses several lipid components in the blood, including:
- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL)
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL)
- Total Cholesterol
- Triglycerides
Fasting for at least nine to twelve hours before blood collection is usually required for lipid profile testing to ensure accuracy. Fasting allows for more accurate assessment of LDL and triglyceride levels.
Healthcare providers utilize risk assessment tools to evaluate an individual’s likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases. These tools consider factors such as age, gender, blood pressure, smoking status, and family history, providing a comprehensive perspective on cardiovascular health.
A thorough medical history review and physical examination complement the objective data from blood tests. Understanding lifestyle factors, existing medical conditions, and family history aids in tailoring interventions and determining the most suitable course of action.
In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend follow-up testing to confirm the diagnosis or monitor the effectiveness of interventions. Repeat lipid profile tests, along with additional assessments, contribute to a dynamic and personalized approach to managing high cholesterol.
What are the causes of cholesterol?
- Genetics
Familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited condition, results in elevated cholesterol levels from a young age. Individuals with a family history of high cholesterol face an increased risk, emphasizing the genetic component in this intricate equation.
- Diet
Foods rich in these fats, such as red meat, full-fat dairy products, and processed snacks, contribute to elevated LDL cholesterol—the infamous “bad” cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol itself, found in animal-based products, also influences blood cholesterol levels.
- Sedentary lifestyles
Regular physical activity helps lower cholesterol levels and also improves overall cardiovascular health. The absence of exercise disrupts this delicate balance, fostering an environment conducive to elevated cholesterol levels.
- Obesity
Excess body weight, especially around the abdominal area, contributes to dyslipidemia, an imbalance in lipid levels. Adipose tissue, or fat cells, influences cholesterol metabolism, leading to increased LDL cholesterol and decreased HDL cholesterol.
- Smoking and Tobacco
Smoking is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and also has an impact on cholesterol levels. The chemicals in tobacco smoke damage blood vessels, facilitating the accumulation of cholesterol-rich plaques. Additionally, smoking lowers HDL cholesterol, further compromising cardiovascular health.
- Age and Gender
Aging changes cholesterol metabolism. As individuals age, cholesterol levels tend to rise, necessitating increased vigilance. Moreover, gender differences play a role, with postmenopausal women experiencing shifts in cholesterol levels that may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.
- Underlying Medical Conditions
Diabetes disrupts the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and influences lipid metabolism. Hypothyroidism, liver diseases, and chronic kidney conditions also contribute to elevated cholesterol levels, emphasizing the systemic nature of this health concern.
- Medications and Hormonal Influences
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and some diuretics, can impact cholesterol levels. Additionally, hormonal factors, including pregnancy and certain hormonal therapies, may contribute to fluctuations in cholesterol levels.
Prevention for high cholesterol
Lifestyle changes can help manage your cholesterol levels. Healthcare providers might advise you to eat less fatty food and exercise more. You can lower high cholesterol by;
- Maintain a healthy weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can help to lower your cholesterol levels.
- Quit smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels and increases your LDL cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
- Limit your alcohol intake: Drinking too much alcohol can raise your triglyceride levels, a type of fat in your blood that can increase your risk of heart disease.
- Managing stress: Look for stress-reduction techniques that are healthy, like yoga, meditation, or outdoor activities.
- Maintain a balanced diet: Eating a balanced and proportioned meal will help you feel full and make you eat less saturated fats or processed food.
Conclusion
If you have a sedentary lifestyle and eat a lot of processed food, consult a practitioner’s best Lung and sleep center about the best effective cholesterol-lowering technique.
Some patients require both medicine and lifestyle changes. Individuals who have health conditions that affect their cholesterol levels may require a more complex plan.
Discuss your medical history, family history, and lifestyle choices with your healthcare professional. Collaborate to create a plan for lowering your cholesterol and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
