How to Know if You Have High Cholesterol banner

By westgate October 7, 2024

How to Know if You Have High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is a common condition, but it often lurks silently, without obvious symptoms to clue you in. So, how do you know if you have high cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in your blood, and while it’s necessary for certain bodily functions, too much of it can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and stroke. Recognizing if you have high cholesterol is the first step to managing it.

Although high cholesterol often doesn’t present with clear symptoms, knowing your risk factors can help you determine if you might be at an increased risk. If your family members have had high cholesterol or heart disease, you may be at a higher risk. Cholesterol levels can increase with age, and men are generally at risk earlier than women. However, women’s risk increases after menopause. Poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to high cholesterol levels.

Especially if you are at a higher risk of having high cholesterol, you should regularly get a blood test called a lipid panel. This measures several types of cholesterol in your blood:

  • Total cholesterol is the overall level of cholesterol in your blood.
  • Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) is the “bad” cholesterol because high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.
  • High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) is also known as the “good” cholesterol since it helps remove LDL from your arteries. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
  • Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood that can contribute to heart disease.

A lipid panel will give you a comprehensive view of your cholesterol levels and help your healthcare provider determine if you need to make lifestyle changes or start treatment. To lower your bad cholesterol and improve your health, focus on eating a balanced diet that’s low in saturated and trans fats. Exercise regularly, don ‘t smoke and avoid excessive drinking. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe you medications to improve your cholesterol levels. While high cholesterol is usually undetectable without a blood test, it can lead to other health problems. Be alert for symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and yellow deposits on the skin. All of these warrant a visit to your doctor immediately.