High Cholesterol Symptoms: Get To Know Them

High cholesterol in the blood is closely associated with the occurrence of various serious health problems such as heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, in the following article, we will introduce you to the symptoms of high cholesterol, which serve as important indicators to consult a doctor. 

What are the symptoms of high cholesterol?

There are no specific symptoms for high cholesterol levels in the blood, and the only way to determine whether cholesterol levels are high or not is through a blood test. 

Many people discover their high cholesterol levels during routine check-ups, and many individuals cannot detect high cholesterol until they experience a health problem that threatens their lives. 

However, familial hypercholesterolemia, which is a rare genetic disorder characterized by high levels of bad cholesterol in the blood, is associated with a set of clear signs and symptoms, including:

1. Xanthomata: Cholesterol may accumulate in the joints of the hands or feet, or the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle, causing the appearance of yellowish swellings in these areas.
2. Xanthelasmas: One of the prominent symptoms of familial hypercholesterolemia is the appearance of small yellowish masses near the inner corner of the eye.
3. Corneal arcus: The appearance of a pale white ring around the iris, which is the colored part of the eye.

How is high cholesterol diagnosed?

There are no specific symptoms for high cholesterol, and blood tests are the only way to diagnose the condition. A blood sample is drawn from the person's vein to measure total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

The desirable levels for cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are:

• LDL cholesterol: Less than 100 milligrams per deciliter.
• HDL cholesterol: 40 milligrams per deciliter or higher.
• Total cholesterol: Less than 200 milligrams per deciliter.
• Triglycerides: Less than 150 milligrams per deciliter.

Blazma in the Lipid Profile Package provides a test for cholesterol levels in the body, whether total, bad cholesterol or good cholesterol, in addition to fatty protein and triglyceride levels.

Is cholesterol testing really necessary?

Elevated cholesterol levels in the blood are associated with the risk of several emergency health conditions. 

The body typically stores excess cholesterol in the arteries through plaques. Over time, these plaques narrow the arteries, allowing less blood to pass through. This can alter the composition of the artery lining, and these plaques may break apart to form a blood clot that obstructs the arteries and prevents blood flow. Blocked arteries can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Because individuals with high cholesterol may not experience symptoms, it is essential to undergo regular tests to measure cholesterol levels in the blood. 

The test is performed by drawing a blood sample from the vein for analysis, and fasting for at least 12 hours is usually required before the test.

How often should cholesterol testing be done?

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recommends that the first cholesterol test be conducted between the ages of 9 - 11, with subsequent tests every 5 years. More frequent testing is advised in the following cases:

• If you have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease.
• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you are a smoker.
• If you are overweight. 

As individuals age, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends the following testing intervals:

• Every 2 years for men aged 45 - 65 and women aged 55 - 65.
• Annually for men and women over 65 years old.