Hight Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)
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What Is High Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and also found in certain foods. Your body needs some cholesterol to function properly, but too much “bad” cholesterol (LDL) in your bloodstream can build up in your arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
There are two main types of cholesterol:
Often called “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque buildup in arteries.
The “good” cholesterol that helps remove LDL from your bloodstream.
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Common Causes
- Poor diet (high in saturated/trans fats)
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Being overweight or obese
- Family history of high cholesterol
- Medical conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism
Symptoms
High cholesterol itself does not usually cause any symptoms—which is why it’s often called a “silent” condition. Most people don’t know they have it until they undergo a blood test or develop complications.
However, over time, untreated high cholesterol can lead to serious health issues due to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. These complications may present symptoms, including:
- – Chest pain (angina): Due to reduced blood flow to the heart
- – Shortness of breath: From blocked arteries or heart disease
- – Numbness or weakness: Especially on one side of the body, which may signal a stroke
- – Leg pain when walking: A sign of peripheral artery disease
- – Heart attack or stroke: In advanced cases of plaque buildup and artery blockage
Because of the lack of early warning signs, regular cholesterol checks are essential—especially if you have risk factors such as a family history, poor diet, or other chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
How can we help
Because high cholesterol usually presents no symptoms, regular check-ups are key—especially if you have other risk factors for heart disease. Speak to a doctor if:
- You have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
- You’ve never had your cholesterol checked before
- You need a repeat script for cholesterol-lowering medication (e.g. statins)
- You’re unsure how to manage cholesterol through lifestyle changes
- You’d like a referral for a blood test to check your levels
