Understanding High Cholesterol and Heart Risk

High Cholesterol is one of the most common health problems affecting millions of people all over the world.  Elevated Cholesterol levels may not have any immediate effects on the body or mind but can lead to serious long term health consequences such as heart disease, stroke or other cardiovascular illnesses. It is important to know about the types of Cholesterol, its causes and the prevention so that the future risks can be reduced.

What is Cholesterol and how can it affect the heart?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is present in the blood.  It is vital for the development of cells, production of hormones and for other numerous functions in the body.  Although, Cholesterol itself does not cause problems when present in normal levels but excess of it can lead to increase in fatty deposits on the walls of blood vessels in the body.  This can result in narrowing of the vessels and blocked blood flow to vital organs such as heart and brain leading to stroke and cardiovascular illnesses such as heart attack.

 

 Types of Cholesterol and their function

Cholesterol can be ‘good’ or ‘bad’ depending on which blood transport system it uses to reach its destination. There are three main types:

 

1. Low density lipoprotein (LDL)

LDL is considered as ‘bad’ Cholesterol as excess of it can deposit fat on the artery walls.

 

2.  High density lipoprotein (HDL)

This is ‘good’ Cholesterol and removes excess Cholesterol from the circulation returning it to the liver for disposal.

 

3. Triglycerides

This is a type of fat found in the blood. Elevated triglycerides are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

 

Causes of High Cholesterol

Numerous reasons have been identified for high Cholesterol and some of the main ones are:

Unhealthy diet

High saturated fat, Trans fat and processed food intake can increase LDL levels.

 

Lack of Physical Activity

Inactivity can contribute to increased weight and decreased HDL levels.

 

Obesity

Excess weight gain increases Cholesterol as well as other risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure and diabetes mellitus.

 

Genetics

Certain inherited conditions like familial hypercholesterol emia can lead to early onset of high Cholesterol.

 

Age and Gender

The older you get the more likely are your Cholesterol levels to increase.  Women are more prone after the menopause due to natural hormonal changes.

Other Health Conditions

Other health problems like diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, hypothyroidism etc.  Can also result in increase in Cholesterol levels.

 

Symptoms of High Cholesterol

High Cholesterol is commonly asymptomatic until the development of serious complications such as angina, stroke and heart attack. This is why it is essential to have regular check-ups and screening tests such as blood tests for Cholesterol called Cholesterol or lipid profile which help identify the risk at the earliest stage.

 

Health Risks Associated with High Cholesterol

The health risks associated with high Cholesterol are mostly related to the development of blockages in the blood vessels. These are:

 

Atherosclerosis

Progressively increasing plaque deposits narrow the blood vessels resulting in difficulty in blood and oxygen flow to organs including brain and heart.

 

Heart attack

Complete or partial blockage of the arteries supplying heart muscles leads to increased damage of the tissues causing a heart attack.

 

 Stroke

Reduced blood supply to the brain leads to stroke.

 

Peripheral artery disease

Narrowed blood vessels in the legs and limbs can cause pain on exertion and may also bring about increased cardiovascular risk.

 

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes   

To prevent increase in Cholesterol one must make some diet and lifestyle related changes:

 

1.  Healthy Diet

Eat healthy by avoiding saturated fat, trans fats and processed foods. Eat fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains.

 

2. Exercise

Be physically active to increase HDL levels and decrease BMI (Body mass index). Try for at least 30 minutes exercise daily.

 

3. Weight Management

Excess weight should be reduced to improve lipid profile.

 

4. Smoking

Stop smoking as it reduces the protective HDL levels.

 

5. Excess alcohol

Avoid as it increases blood triglycerides and weight gain.

 

6. Stress

Learn to relax and de, stress through meditation, yoga, music etc.

 

The role of medication in Cholesterol control

In some cases even after a healthy diet and increased physical activity, medication may be required to control Cholesterol levels. There are many types of medications available depending on the individual requirements such as statins, fibrates and PCSK9 inhibitors. It is important to have access to original formulated medications to 1. Reduce the risk of health consequences 2. Enjoy the convenience and 3. Get safe and timely delivery of medicines. Websites such as MedyPharmacy offer genuine meds for long term illnesses offering safety, security and peace of mind.

 

Screening to prevent complications

Regular measurement of the Cholesterol levels through tests like blood lipid levels and screening blood pressure and body mass index will help in the early detection of any risks and prevent complications such as heart attack and stroke.

 

What is the chance of developing other complications in addition to high cholesterol?

Cholesterol alone is just one of the many risk factors for life threatening diseases in the heart and brain. Other factors are:

• High blood pressure


• Diabetes mellitus


• Inactive lifestyle


• Smoking


• Family history

 

Conclusion

High Cholesterol is a silent health problem occurring in millions of people which, if left unnoticed, can lead to life threatening problems like stroke and heart attack. Once you are aware of the clinical risks and understand the essential steps to help prevent or control this disorder including healthy dietary and lifestyle modifications, routine health care and specialist medical aid if required then you are truly empowered to lead a healthy life and prevent these complications.