High cholesterol is a condition in which you have too much cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body needs to build cells. But too much cholesterol can build up in your arteries and lead to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
High cholesterol usually has no symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get your cholesterol checked regularly. A blood test can measure your cholesterol levels.
If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising, and losing weight. You may also need to take medication to lower your cholesterol.
Here are some of the symptoms of high cholesterol that may occur if the condition has progressed to a more serious stage:
* Chest pain (angina)
* Heart attack
* Stroke
* Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
* Atrial fibrillation
* Eye problems, such as cataracts and macular degeneration
* Kidney disease
* Alzheimer’s disease
If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.
Here are some of the things you can do to keep your cholesterol levels in check:
* Eat a healthy diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It also means limiting your intake of saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.
* Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
* Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.
* Don’t smoke.
* Limit your alcohol intake.
* Take medication if your doctor recommends it.
By following these steps, you can help keep your cholesterol levels in check and reduce your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.