Are There Any Symptoms Of High Cholesterol? See When To Get Tested

High cholesterol is a common yet serious health concern. While most individuals ignore slightly high numbers on their reports, when left uncontrolled, they can contribute to some serious consequences. High cholesterol refers to having an excess of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that's essential for building cells and producing hormones, but too much of it can lead to health problems, particularly cardiovascular diseases. There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called bad cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as good cholesterol. High levels of LDL can result in plaque buildup in the arteries, which narrows the arteries and can lead to conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

What are the symptoms of high cholesterol?

High cholesterol itself typically doesn't have noticeable symptoms. A blood test is the only way to find out if you have it. Elevated levels can lead to serious health issues over time. Some potential signs related to high cholesterol levels include:

• Chest pain (angina)
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Waxy, yellowish, fatty lumps or nodules that can appear under the skin, particularly on the elbows, knees, joints, or tendons
• Small, yellowish plaques or patches that develop on or near the inner corners of the eyelids.
• A pale white, grey, or blue ring that forms around the iris (the coloured part) of the eye.

Symptoms of complications

While symptoms of high cholesterol are not noticeable, the resulting atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries) can restrict blood flow and lead to the following symptoms:

• Chest pain: A feeling of tightness, pressure, or squeezing in the chest, often triggered by physical activity or stress.
• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during exertion, as the heart works harder to pump blood through narrowed vessels.
• Leg pain (PAD): Cramping, achiness, or pain in the calves or legs during activity (intermittent claudication) caused by reduced circulation to the limbs.
• Numbness and tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs due to poor blood flow.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or weakness as organs and muscles receive less oxygen-rich blood.
• Dizziness: Lightheadedness or vertigo that may occur if blood flow to the brain is restricted

When should you get tested?

High cholesterol rarely shows symptoms until complications arise; regular screening is the only way to track your levels. According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, healthy adults aged 20 and older have their cholesterol levels checked every four to six years. However, if you have risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, or smoking, your healthcare provider may suggest more frequent testing.

Age-wise testing guideline as per CDC:

• Most healthy adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years
• Individuals with heart disease, diabetes, or a family history of high cholesterol need to get their cholesterol checked more often, annually or every 1-2 years
• Children should have their cholesterol checked at least once between the ages of 9 and 11
• Adolescents should have their cholesterol checked between the ages of 17 and 21
• Children who have obesity or diabetes may need to be screened for high cholesterol more often

General guidelines also suggest starting screenings in early adulthood, with more frequent checks for men over 45 and women over 55. Early detection and management can greatly reduce the risk of associated health problems.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.