High cholesterol: 10 very common symptoms to be aware of

Cholesterol is that little monster that many fear but not everyone knows well. What we are all sure of is this when cholesterol is high something needs to be done. However, first there are symptoms that indicate an exaggerated high cholesterol level.

Cholesterol is one of the markers that is evaluated in routine tests because having high values ​​is one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular disease. In Argentina, for example, almost three out of 10 adults have high cholesterol. And globally, the indexes are replicated.

Recommended steps to lower it include healthy eating, exercise and medication (if necessary).

Cholesterol isn’t bad in itself, the body needs it to function. But having too much LDL cholesterol (known as “bad”) contributes to plaque buildup on artery walls, which narrows or blocks blood flow and can lead to heart failure. heart attacks or strokes.

Although there are drugs that help check cholesterol, factors related to Lifestyle they are pillars of the strategy and cannot be replaced by drugs.

But above all, all adults should be beware of the symptoms that the body itself reveals when the levels start to rise. These are the 10 most common and important ones.

Swelling and numbness in the extremities

Swelling and numbness in the extremities is one of the initial symptoms of high cholesterol. This reaction occurs because the accumulated lipids prevent optimal circulationwhich decreases the passage of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles.

Bad breath

Bad breath or halitosis is a very common sign in patients who may have cholesterol problems. Since this substance is secreted in the liver, its excessive accumulation hinders digestion, which manifests itself in dryness and unpleasant odors in the mouth.

Stomach heaviness and indigestion

Excess lipids in the blood and liver affect the metabolism and prevent the digestive process from developing in a normal way, especially when eating foods that are high in fat. For this reason, high levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and total cholesterol usually lead to ongoing episodes of indigestion and bloat.

Dizziness and headache

As cholesterol is deposited in the arteries, circulation is increasingly impaired and, therefore, cellular oxygenation is disrupted. This is manifested by constant dizziness, loss of balance and severe tension headaches.

Vision problems

It is common for patients with elevated LDL cholesterol levels to have a yellow bump on the eyesirritation and blurred vision.

Constipation

The accumulation of lipids in the arteries affects the digestive process. In other words, as intestinal motility decreases, episodes of constipation may appear.

Chest pain

Chest pain is a very easy symptom to identify. It is almost always cause for immediate medical attention. Although there are many diseases associated with its appearance, most of the cases have to do with the effects of high LDL cholesterol.

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erectile dysfunction, weakness and fatigue

In men, high cholesterol can interfere with normal sexual function. The accumulation of these lipids in the blood vessels worsens blood flow, even that which is directed towards the sexual organs. And as a result, erectile function may be impaired. The feeling of weakness, tiredness and the desire to sleep, in unusual hours and continuously, usually result from: nutritional deficiencies, excessive physical activity, illness or high cholesterol levels.

skin conditions

Symptoms of high cholesterol can also include skin conditions, such as hives and others. They often manifest themselves with reddish spots, inflammation and an annoying itching sensation that is often difficult to control.

Stones in the gallbladder

Cholesterol plays an important role in bile secretion, a substance that helps digest fats and break down food. But when it’s too concentrated, it can turn into crystals and hard stones that stay in the gallbladder. For this reason, in addition to other factors, the appearance of gallstones could be an indication of high cholesterol.