Poor diet, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking and alcohol consumption are said to be some of the leading factors that increase ‘bad’ cholesterol levels in the body, making our lifestyle one of the primary culprits.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance in the blood that helps build healthy cells in the body. Generally, there are two different types of cholesterol: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which are ‘bad’ cholesterol and High-density lipoprotein (HDL) also known as ‘good’ cholesterol.
While high cholesterol can also be inherited, often it is the result of unhealthy lifestyle choices, which make it preventable and treatable. Eating right, indulging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are some of the ways your risk can be curbed
Apart from high blood pressure, high cholesterol is also termed ‘the silent killer’ because it usually doesn’t manifest itself through symptoms. These types of illnesses are dangerous and life-threatening and need close monitoring.
READ ALSO: 7 telltale signs of a stroke
That said, while an increase in cholesterol levels may not directly kill you, if not diagnosed or treated early, it can increase your chances of developing heart diseases, which can be fatal.
As discussed, high cholesterol may not show any signs. However, if left untreated for long, it can lead to a condition called atherosclerosis, wherein your arteries become clogged with fatty substances called plaques.
This can in turn block your arteries and stop the blood flow to your legs, giving light to another condition called peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
According to the UK’s National Health Services (NHS), PAD can cause a smelly warning sign, which is associated with critical limb ischaemia (CLI) – an “extremely serious” complication that can be difficult to treat.
READ ALSO: Study reveals eggs contaminated with cancer toxic pollutants in circulation
CLI refers to a severe blockage of the arteries in the lower body, which is said to reduce blood-flow. It is a more complicated form of PAD and more uncommon than claudication, pain in the legs or arms that takes place while walking or using the arms.
While high cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms or show signs, it is best to determine your levels through a blood test. Depending on your age, weight and other underlying condition, your doctor may suggest some tests and medications.
If your test results show cholesterol levels, start making necessary lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, full of fruits and nutritious greens. Limit foods that are high in saturated fat and include regular exercise to your routine.
According to the Mayo Clinic, eating heart-healthy foods ie a diet low in saturated fats, high in omega-3 fatty acids and soluble fibre, exercising regularly, quitting smoking and losing weight can lower your cholesterol levels.
At times, changing your lifestyle may not be enough. It is then that doctors may recommend medications.
High cholesterol is dubbed as a silent killer. An elevated level of cholesterol does not show any symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to get the blood tested so that a small increase in the cholesterol level is checked.