Do you know what high cholesterol can do to the body? It is known that this is a health condition that affects many people worldwide, and although it is a common problem, it can often go unnoticed.
Many people don’t know that high cholesterol can cause several health problems, especially when left untreated, becoming a silent threat to cardiovascular health.
In this article, we will discuss what high cholesterol can cause to the body, the warning symptoms, the consequences of this condition in the body, and the importance of preventive checkups for an early diagnosis. Continue reading and check it out!
What Is High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, is a condition with elevated blood cholesterol levels. It is important to note that cholesterol is a waxy and fatty substance produced by the liver but can also be found in certain foods.
It plays a vital role in the body for hormone production, cell formation, and fat digestion. However, when cholesterol levels exceed healthy limits, serious health problems can occur.
Two leading causes of high cholesterol are genetic/hereditary factors and lifestyle. Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic disorder that causes high cholesterol levels from birth, significantly increasing the risk of early heart disease.
Lifestyle factors are also important, as a diet high in saturated and trans fats found in processed foods, fatty meats, and full-fat dairy products can increase LDL (harmful) cholesterol levels.
What Are The Warning Symptoms?
High cholesterol often has no noticeable symptoms; blood tests are needed to identify the problem. However, some warning signs may indicate high cholesterol levels in the body.
According to the Ministry of Health, some of these symptoms include:
- chest pain or discomfort, especially when doing physical activity;
- recurring headaches;
- vision problems;
- tingling in the legs and feet;
- pain in the legs when walking, which usually improves with rest;
- cold skin and pallor in the fingers;
- hair loss on legs.
In the presence of any of these signs, it is essential to seek medical help! Remember that if left untreated, high cholesterol can have serious health consequences.
What Can High Cholesterol Do To The Body?
When LDL (bad) cholesterol levels are high, fatty plaque builds up on artery walls, known as atherosclerosis. This can narrow and harden the arteries, compromising proper blood flow to vital organs.
One of the main consequences of high cholesterol is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease. Clogged coronary arteries can lead to angina (chest pain) and a heart attack in more severe cases.
High cholesterol is also associated with a higher risk of stroke. When fatty plaques break off and block blood flow to the brain, the oxygen supply is cut off, causing brain damage.
It is also important to note that high cholesterol can lead to other vascular diseases, such as peripheral artery disease. The kidneys can also be affected, causing renal artery disease, characterized by reduced blood flow to the kidneys.
Lastly, high cholesterol can negatively affect blood vessels throughout the body, contributing to erectile dysfunction in men. Therefore, high cholesterol should not be underestimated as it can have serious health consequences.
It is essential to adopt measures to control cholesterol levels, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, following medical guidelines, and performing periodic examinations to monitor cardiovascular health.
The Importance Of Preventive Checkups
Given the risks associated with high cholesterol, it is essential to carry out preventive checkups regularly. These medical exams can detect cholesterol levels in the body and provide critical information for an early diagnosis, necessary for starting the appropriate treatment and reducing the risks of future complications.
Remember that routine exams and medical evaluations make it possible to identify these conditions even before obvious symptoms appear, allowing for more effective treatment. In the case of high cholesterol, for example, adequate intervention allows controlling levels, reducing the chances of cardiovascular problems and improving quality of life.
Now that you know what high cholesterol can do to the body, dedicate time and resources to regular checkups and medical follow-ups, as it is a valuable investment in your long-term health and well-being. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of preventive health checkups.
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