upper cholesterol may be referred to as the “silent killer”. It is so named because it rarely shows obvious symptoms until it causes severe health complications. But how do we detect it before it’s too late? By tuning into our body and understanding its hidden clues, we can take care of our health. Here’s everything you need to know about this ‘silent killer’, from what cholesterol is, and why it can be a problem, to the silent signs that could signal a problem.
What is cholesterol and why is it important?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance produced naturally by the liver. It is essential for building cells, producing hormones, and digesting food. But not all cholesterol is created equal. There are two main types:
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Known as “bad cholesterol”, high levels can clog arteries.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL): Known as “good cholesterol,” it helps remove LDL from the bloodstream.
The problem starts when there is too much LDL in the blood. These can stick to the walls of our arteries, causing blockages that increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
“High cholesterol, or dyslipidemia, often does not show symptoms but causes significant health risks due to the modern lifestyle marked by bad habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and sedentary behavior. Without early detection, it can lead to serious conditions such as heart attack, stroke , and fatty liver disease, which can develop into liver failure. For Indians, early screening is very important, because heart problems occur earlier and more often compared to Europeans. Lifestyle modifications and regular monitoring of LDL cholesterol levels, especially for people who have risk factors, is key to prevent these health problems."
Dr. Rakesh Sood, MBBS, MD, Fortis Hospital
Why do some people have high cholesterol?
High cholesterol levels can be caused by various factors:
- Diet: Foods high in saturated fat (such as fried foods and processed snacks) can raise LDL cholesterol.
- Lack of exercise: Sitting for too long can be harmful. Physical inactivity can lower HDL (good cholesterol) levels.
- Genetics: Some people develop a condition called familial hypercholesterolemia, which causes high cholesterol regardless of lifestyle.
- Other factors: Obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism also contribute.
"High cholesterol often goes unnoticed until it causes significant damage, making regular checkups and blood tests important for early detection. Subtle signs like Xanthelasma (fatty deposits on the eyelids), Corneal Arcus (gray or yellow rings around the cornea), Tendon Xanthomas (cholesterol deposits in tendons), fatigue, shortness of breath, and early atherosclerosis symptoms, including chest pain or legs. ignored. If left untreated, it can lead to problems like erectile dysfunction, stroke-like symptoms, and high blood pressure."
Dr. Jolly Joan Jesse Benjamin, MBBS, MD (Medicine), from Healing Ray Clinic
According to a summary published in the US National Library of Medicine, Approximately 0.2% to 0.5% of people worldwide are believed to have familial hypercholesterolemia. Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic condition that causes very high cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease early in life.
What can cause high cholesterol?
Uncontrolled cholesterol can cause several health problems:
- Atherosclerosis: accumulation of plaque in the arteries, narrowing blood flow.
- Heart disease: High cholesterol is a major cause of heart attacks and coronary artery disease.
- Stroke: Blocked or reduced blood flow to the brain can cause a stroke.
- Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Poor circulation to the limbs due to narrowed arteries.
The danger lies in its stealth. When complications arise, the damage can be severe.
Frequent tingling in hands and feet
Have you ever felt a pins-and-needles sensation in your extremities? Poor blood flow caused by narrowed arteries can cause this tingling. A study published in Nerve Regeneration Research explains that high cholesterol damages the peripheral nervous system, causing problems like nerve damage, vision and hearing loss, motor nerve problems, and dysfunction of the sympathetic nervous system, focusing on the underlying causes. Although this may indicate a neurological problem, you should discuss it with your doctor if it happens often.
Yellow deposits in the eyes (Xanthelasma)
Fatty deposits that form small, yellow bumps around the eyelids are a classic sign of high cholesterol. These bumps may not hurt, but they are a sign of excess lipids in the blood, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. They are often more visible in people with familial high cholesterol.
Chest pain or discomfort
Although not always dramatic, chest discomfort can be an early sign of restricted blood flow to the heart. This occurs when cholesterol deposits cause blockages in the coronary arteries. Do not ignore pain, tightness, or heaviness in your chest.
Difficulty remembering things
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating may be related to poor blood flow due to blocked arteries. Cholesterol deposits can restrict blood flow to the brain, impairing cognitive function over time.
High blood pressure
Cholesterol and blood pressure are related. Plaque buildup makes the arteries stiff and narrow, forcing the heart to pump harder to circulate blood. This can silently increase blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease.
Cold or numb feet
It may indicate poor circulation if the feet often feel cold, even in warm temperatures. High cholesterol reduces blood flow to the extremities, which can also cause numbness or pain in the legs and feet.
Changes in the ears
Excess cholesterol can cause thicker earwax buildup in some cases. A study published in Journal of Nutrition in 2011, it was explained that participants with the highest dietary cholesterol levels were 33% more likely to experience severe hearing loss.
Healing is slow
High cholesterol can restrict blood flow, making cuts or sores, especially in the legs, take longer to heal.
Sudden, heavy headache
While headaches are common, those that are severe and sudden can indicate a stroke caused by high cholesterol. This happens when a blocked artery interferes with blood flow to the brain.
Dark lines under nails
Brown or red lines on the nails can indicate damage to small blood vessels, which may be related to cholesterol build-up. Known as splinter hemorrhages, these lines warrant medical attention if they appear without injury.
How to treat high cholesterol
As each Harvard HealthFor every 10% reduction in cholesterol levels, the risk of heart attack decreases by 20% to 30%.
Preventing or managing high cholesterol is easier than it seems. Here’s how to maintain your level:
Treating high cholesterol starts with adopting a heart-healthy diet. This means filling your plate with more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Swap unhealthy saturated fats for good fats found in nuts, seeds, and olive oil. At the same time, try to reduce red meat, fried foods, and processed snacks that can increase bad cholesterol levels.
Staying active is also important. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like brisk walking or swimming are good options. Strength training and aerobic exercise can also improve your cholesterol profile and improve overall heart health.
Cholesterol can cause heart blockage: Doctors share early prevention tips
Quitting smoking is an important step in managing cholesterol. Smoking lowers HDL (good cholesterol) levels and damages blood vessels, making it easier for plaque to build up and block arteries. In addition, limiting alcohol consumption is also beneficial. Drinking in moderation—or avoiding it altogether—helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce stress on the heart.
Monitoring your cholesterol levels regularly is very important, especially if you have a family history of high cholesterol. Regular screening can help detect problems early and allow you to make the necessary changes. For some, lifestyle adjustments alone are not enough. In these cases, doctors can prescribe drugs like statins to effectively manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of complications.
