What happens when I have 600-1000 and above measurement range cholesterol for 30 years?

High cholesterol, also known as hypercholesterolemia, refers to elevated levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance essential for various bodily functions. However, high cholesterol levels can increase your risk of developing serious health conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

Having a cholesterol measurement range of 600-1000 mg/dL or above for 30 years significantly increases your risk of cardiovascular problems, including:

1. Artery Narrowing (Atherosclerosis): High cholesterol can cause plaque, made of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances, to build up inside artery walls. This plaque narrows the arteries, making it more difficult for blood to flow through them.

2. Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease): When plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, it can reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. This can cause chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and even a heart attack.

3. Stroke: Plaque buildup in the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, can increase the risk of stroke. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted due to a blocked blood vessel. This can cause brain damage and lifelong disabilities.

4. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): High cholesterol can also lead to plaque buildup in arteries outside the heart and brain. This can result in peripheral artery disease, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected limb (usually the legs). Severe PAD can lead to tissue damage and even amputation.

5. Increased Risk of Diabetes: People with high cholesterol often have other risk factors for diabetes, such as obesity and high blood pressure. High cholesterol is part of a condition known as "metabolic syndrome," characterized by various factors associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

It is important to note that while high cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions, it does not always lead to these problems. However, having persistently elevated cholesterol levels for a prolonged period significantly increases your vulnerability.

If you have persistently high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing other underlying conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to lower cholesterol.

Regular monitoring and management of cholesterol levels are crucial for maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. If you have any concerns about your cholesterol levels, discuss them with your doctor.