Are there symptoms of high cholesterol?
High cholesterol is a silent killer. Many people who have high cholesterol aren’t aware of the problem until it results in heart disease. Unlike most other illnesses and health conditions, there are no symptoms of high cholesterol. Some people may be more likely to have unsafe cholesterol levels based on their ages, genders, family histories or lifestyle choices, but the only way to know whether you have high cholesterol is to visit your doctor and be tested.
High cholesterol risk factors
As stated earlier, several factors can affect a person’s likelihood of having high cholesterol. These factors include:
- Gender: Several studies have shown that women are more likely to develop high cholesterol than men. That’s mainly because women are more likely to experience higher levels of LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) following menopause. The risk of heart disease and other health issues also increases after menopause.
- Age: As people get older, the body’s ability to break down foods diminishes. This increases the risk of cholesterol buildup and weight gain that can stress the cardiovascular system.
- Ethnicity: Research has shown that Mexican Americans are more likely than white or black Americans to develop high cholesterol. This trend holds true with both men and women.
- Weight: Obesity causes the body to produce more LDL and less HDL (the good cholesterol). Carrying extra weight on your frame can also cause your heart to work harder, which can compound the problem of having high cholesterol.
- Diet: The more saturated fat you eat, the more LDL (and the less HDL) your body will produce. People who have eaten foods high in saturated fat for several years should strongly consider being tested for high cholesterol.
- Physical activity: People who are physically active are less likely to have cholesterol buildup in their arteries. However, it’s possible for people who are physically fit to have cholesterol problems if they continue eating an unhealthy diet.
- Family History: Some people are simply more prone to developing high cholesterol. If you have a history of high cholesterol in your family, you should consider being tested to make sure you don’t have the problem as well. This is also important if your family has a history of heart disease.
When should people be tested for high cholesterol?
Doctors recommend that all adults be tested for high cholesterol at least once every five years. Older and middle-aged adults are most at risk of developing high cholesterol, specifically men who are 45 and older and women who are 55 and older. Younger adults can have high cholesterol, though they are less vulnerable to developing the condition. Anyone who falls under any of the aforementioned at-risk groups should be tested for high cholesterol as soon as possible. If the risk factors don’t apply to you, then chances are you have nothing to worry about, but you’ll never know until you’re checked.