If your cholesterol levels are persistently high, you are at risk of developing:
1. Atherosclerosis
As the arteries or blood vessels are build up with excessive cholesterol plaques, the arteries will narrow.
2. Angina
If the narrowing of arteries occurs in the heart, one may experience a heavy, dull, chest tightness over the center of the chest, spreading to the lef side of the arm, neck, jaw or even the back. This is known as angina. The symptoms of angina are due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle especially when you are under physical exertion.
3. Heart attack/ Myocardial infarction
When the blood supply to the heart is completely cut off/ blocked by cholesterol plaques or even a blood clot, a person can develop a heart attack. This is a medical emergency and you can succumb to the condition if no immediate medical attention is given.
4. Coronary heart disease
Patients can be asymptomatic even with evidence of blockages of the main arteries of the heart. Without appropriate health intervention, these patients are at higher risk to develop angina or heart attack.
5. Stroke
If the blood supply to the brain is completely blocked by the cholesterol plaques, a stroke can occur. This is a serious medical emergency. The outcome of a stroke event ranges from full recovery, mild disability, bedridden, inability to talk/ move or even death.
6. Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mini stroke
This is due to temporary interruption or blockage of blood flow to the brain due to cholesterol plaques.
7. Peripheral vascular disease
If the blood vessels flow is reduced or blocked by cholesterol plaques, a personal can develop peripheral vascular disease. Symptoms of peripheral vascular disease include changes of skin colors, weak pulses on the limbs, hair loss, or even gangrene.
In view of the possible complications, primary prevention with good control of cholesterol is imperative. Speak to your doctor to discuss further on cholesterols.