How does high cholesterol manifest?
The Basic Nature of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol typically does not cause clear symptoms. It develops slowly, and problems only manifest over the long term when cholesterol accumulates in the walls of the arteries, leading to narrowing, known as atherosclerosis. For this reason, high cholesterol is often referred to as a "silent disease."
How Does Cholesterol Accumulate Harm in the Body?
Cholesterol accumulates in the walls of the arteries, especially when LDL levels are elevated. This accumulation leads to an inflammatory response, hardening of the arteries, and thickening of the walls. Over the long term, this can impede the normal flow of blood to the heart, brain, and limbs.
Indirect symptoms and consequences
Although cholesterol itself does not present symptoms, its consequences can manifest in various ways:
Chest pain or a tight feeling in the chest
Atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries can cause angina pectoris, or exertional chest pain. This is often the first sign of prolonged high cholesterol.
Shortness of breath during exertion
Impaired blood flow to the heart or lungs can lead to shortness of breath even with minimal exertion, despite otherwise good physical condition.
Leg pain while walking
If blood circulation to the lower limbs is impaired, for example due to narrowing of the femoral arteries, pain or numbness may occur, especially while walking. This is referred to as intermittent claudication.
Erectile problems in men
Impaired blood flow can cause erectile dysfunction, particularly in middle-aged or older men with other risk factors such as high blood pressure.
Sudden cerebrovascular accident or heart attack
Arterial blockage in the brain or heart can be the first and most serious consequence of untreated high cholesterol. Symptoms appear suddenly and require urgent treatment.
Rarer physical signs
Xanthomas, or cholesterol deposits on the skin
Can appear as fatty lumps in tendons or eyelids (xanthelasma). These are particularly seen in hereditary hypercholesterolemia.
Corneal ring
A pale or grayish ring around the cornea may be visible in the eyes, especially in individuals under 45 years old. It does not itself impair vision but may indicate elevated blood lipid levels.
The connection between high cholesterol and other diseases
High cholesterol is strongly associated with:
Myocardial infarction
Cerebrovascular disorders (TIA, stroke)
Peripheral artery disease
Erectile dysfunction
Additional risks of type 2 diabetes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I know if I have high cholesterol?
The only sure way is a blood test. Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides are measured from a fasting blood sample.
2. Can high cholesterol cause fatigue?
No, not directly, but if cholesterol has caused a deterioration in circulation, it can affect endurance, for example, during exertion.
3. Does high cholesterol show symptoms in young people?
Rarely. In young people, high cholesterol is often hereditary, and symptoms may not appear until years later unless the issue is detected in time.
4. Can cholesterol cause dizziness?
No, not usually.Dizziness is often caused by other factors, but if there is an underlying cerebrovascular disorder, cholesterol may have an indirect role.
5. Can high cholesterol be seen on the skin?
In some cases, particularly in hereditary cholesterol disorders, xanthomas or xanthelasmas, which are cholesterol deposits on the skin or eyelids, may occur.