High Cholesterol: Unveiling the Basics
High cholesterol is more than just numbers on a lab report; it’s a key player in heart health. It’s essential to start with the fundamentals.
Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood that your body needs to build cells but can become problematic in excess. There are two primary types: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). LDL is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, while HDL is the “good” counterpart.
Recognizing Symptoms
Decoding High Cholesterol: Symptoms, Tests & Ranges
Symptoms of high cholesterol can be elusive, making regular testing crucial. However, some common signs include:
Chest pain or angina
Yellowish patches on the skin (xanthomas)
Fat deposits in the eyelids (xanthelasmas)
Poor circulation in the legs
Stroke
It’s important to note that high cholesterol is often asymptomatic until it causes more severe issues, emphasizing the importance of routine testing.
