Why Does Cholesterol & Fat Build Up in Veins?

Cholesterol itself is a fat-like substance that’s found among fats in the blood stream according to the American Heart Association. The scientific term for cholesterol buildup in the veins is atherosclerosis reports the Mayo Clinic.

Cause

• Cholesterol and fat build up is affected by a variety of factors. The main factor is too much cholesterol and fat existing in the blood stream. High cholesterol and fat levels in the blood can result from lack of physical activity combined with a poor diet, per the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

Fact

• The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute explains that high cholesterol results in the hardening of arteries, causing the arteries to become narrow. Narrow arteries decrease the blood supply to the heart and increase the risk for a heart attack.

Symptoms

• One of the main problems surrounding cholesterol and fat buildup in the veins is that there are no symptoms cautions the Mayo Clinic, who suggest getting a blood test for cholesterol at least once every five years because it’s the only way to detect cholesterol levels.

Risk Factors

• Risk Factors for cholesterol and fat buildup in veins include smoking, obesity, poor diet, lack of exercise, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a family history of heart disease according to the Mayo Clinic.

Complications

• The Mayo Clinic warns that if a plaque deposit (deposit made from cholesterol and other accumulated material) tears or ruptures from the arterial wall, it can result in a blood clot which may plug an artery downstream.