High cholesterol is dangerous because it usually has no symptoms. However, early detection of this condition helps prevent serious complications, including heart disease and stroke.
According to experts, elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol most often appears due to an unhealthy lifestyle: excessive consumption of fatty foods, lack of physical activity, and bad habits.
Cardiologists identify three early signals that may indicate a problem:
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Exacerbation of chronic diseases. Cholesterol can increase in people with diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disease, as well as chronic inflammatory processes - lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or psoriasis.
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Chest pain and shortness of breath. These sensations often indicate narrowing or blockage of the arteries. The pain may radiate to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back.
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Changes in the face and skin. Excess cholesterol can be signaled by xanthomas (fatty deposits under the skin) and the appearance of a corneal arc in the eyes.
Doctors advise not to ignore these signs and to regularly check cholesterol levels, especially for people at risk.
