Silent killer: How ignoring these subtle signs of high cholesterol could lead to heart attacks
It's vital to understand that cholesterol is divided into two types: LDL, the "bad" type, which carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells. An excess of LDL can lead to deposits within the blood vessels, and it's often referred to as a "silent killer."
5:01 AM EST, January 14, 2024
Conversely, HDL is the "good" type of cholesterol, responsible for transporting lipids back to the liver, where they get metabolized and then used or excreted in the form of bile acids. An HDL deficiency can also be dangerous.
It's worth noting that cholesterol issues don't present specific symptoms. Issues like atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease can develop for years without a person even realizing it. Always pay attention to your diet and consider any family predispositions to cholesterol problems.
It's crucial to specifically test for LDL cholesterol, not just total cholesterol, because the results may not reflect the actual health issues a person may be facing. This 'bad' cholesterol is a valuable indicator of our health condition.
Identifying the Signs of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol can show itself in a variety of ways. However, the symptoms are often so generic that they can be easily overlooked or attributed to other health issues. Most importantly, keep a close eye on the condition of your lower limbs.
Leg and foot numbness can signal abnormal blood flow and potential atherosclerosis problems. Other alarming signs include chest pain, frequent bouts of shortness of breath, constant fatigue, and persistently cold extremities.
Cholesterol can be managed without medication. Moderate-intensity physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce cholesterol levels. It's recommended to get at least 150 minutes of exercise per week, in addition to curbing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking.
Diet also plays a crucial role in lowering cholesterol. Foods high in fats, especially fried meats, should be eliminated. Animal fats should be replaced with plant-based alternatives and increase the intake of oily fish, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
