High Cholesterol Symptoms And Their Impact On Health
High cholesterol, also known as hyperlipidemia, plays a significant role in the development of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. In its early stages, it often presents no noticeable symptoms, which is why many individuals remain unaware of their condition until more severe signs begin to appear. These may include dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, forgetfulness, chest tightness, and palpitations.
Understanding The Progression Of High Cholesterol
As the condition progresses, serious complications such as angina, myocardial infarction, and stroke may occur. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), high cholesterol is often associated with symptoms like heaviness in the limbs, dizziness, and blurred vision. Modern medicine categorizes these symptoms under conditions such as phlegm syndrome, dampness obstruction, chest obstruction, and vertigo.
Why High Cholesterol Is Difficult To Detect Early
Hyperlipidemia is particularly dangerous due to its silent progression. Most patients do not experience clear symptoms in the early stages. Often, elevated cholesterol levels are only discovered during routine blood tests conducted as part of a general health check-up.
How High Cholesterol Affects The Body
When lipid levels in the blood rise, the blood becomes more viscous, leading to the accumulation of fats on arterial walls. This process results in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, which can narrow arteries and restrict blood flow. When this affects the arteries supplying the brain, it can cause symptoms like dizziness, headaches, fatigue, insomnia, and impaired memory.
If the brain's blood supply is severely compromised due to a blocked artery or an embolism caused by plaque dislodgement, it can lead to a stroke. Common signs of stroke include facial drooping, numbness in the limbs, and difficulty with coordination and speech.
The Impact On Heart Health
When high cholesterol affects the coronary arteries, it can result in reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, and general fatigue. In advanced stages, this can progress to angina or even heart attack—life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention.
Other Health Complications Linked To High Cholesterol
In addition to heart and brain-related issues, excessive lipid buildup can also impact the liver. Over time, fat accumulation in liver cells can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which may progress to more severe conditions like cirrhosis if left untreated.