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What Physiological Harm Is Caused by High Cholesterol?

The effects of high cholesterol on the arteries and heart are gradual and present few symptoms until they result in heart disease or stroke. It is the long term build-up that causes the damage and, without regular testing, the risk of fatality increases.

  1. Build-up in the Arteries

    • High cholesterol can equal a hospital stay

      When a person has high LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, whether the cause is a genetic predisposition, the types of foods one eats or a combination of both, a substance called "plaque" builds up in the arteries. This narrows the space through which blood passes and causes the arteries to harden, a condition called "atherosclerosis." This condition is a precursor heart attack or stroke.

    Increased Risk of Heart Problems

    • Plaque build-up leads to heart disease. Narrowed arteries cause angina and arteries that are blocked off cause blood clots. When the blood cannot get through or a clot breaks loose and cycles to the heart, the result is cardiac arrest.

    Increased Risk of Stroke

    • Stroke occurs when the blood cannot flow through the arteries in the brain whether caused by a clot or a blockage. According to University of Virginia Health System, high blood cholesterol and lipids increase the risk for stroke.

    Other Long Term Effects of High Cholesterol

    • It may take years for high cholesterol to cause a heart attack or stroke but in the meantime, plaque build up can cause arterial problems in other areas of the body.

    Reversing Harm Caused by High Cholesterol

    • Establishing healthy habits can lower cholesterol levels

      Regular cholesterol testing is a first line of defense against stroke or heart attack because the first outward sign of high cholesterol is often a trip to the emergency room.

      High cholesterol can have fatal results. If it is caught early, the levels of LDL cholesterol may be lowered by diet, exercise and medication. Increasing the level of HDL cholesterol is helpful as well. Surgery may be indicated once arterial blockages or atherosclerosis has occurred.

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