AskDocDoc
/
/
/
What are symptoms of high cholesterol?
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #12480
49 days ago
103

What are symptoms of high cholesterol? - #12480

Janvi

I am really trying to understand what are symptoms of high cholesterol because lately I’ve been feeling kind of off. Last month, after my annual checkup, my doctor said my cholesterol levels were higher than they should be, but didn’t really specify what are symptoms of high cholesterol that I should be looking out for. I mean, I thought if you had high cholesterol, you’d feel something, right? I’ve been having some weird things like occasional chest discomfort, but not sure if that’s related or just anxiety from work stress. Sometimes I get a weird tight sensation in my neck, and it kinda freaks me out. My dad had heart issues, so that’s been on my mind. I eat a lot of fried food and red meat, but I didn’t think it would catch up to me this quick. Are there really clear-cut what are symptoms of high cholesterol, or can it just creep up on you without any signs?? I’ve also read online that some people don’t have symptoms at all. Should I be doing something more proactive? Like, should I be worried about it or is it just part of getting older? Ugh, this is such a mess; I just want to know what are symptoms of high cholesterol so I can keep an eye on my health better!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

High cholesterol, unfortunately, often doesn’t come with clear-cut symptoms. This silent presence makes it tricky—one can have high cholesterol and feel perfectly fine, which is why it’s often identified during routine screenings rather than presenting with symptoms. When cholesterol levels are high, it can contribute to the narrowing and hardening of arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. This can eventually lead to symptoms associated with cardiovascular disease when blood flow becomes restricted. You’re right to be mindful of your family history given that you’re experiencing chest discomfort; it could be related to anxiety, but it also warrants medical attention just to rule out any cardiac concerns. As for the sensation in your neck, unless it’s accompanied by more typical cardiac symptoms or persists, it might not directly correlate with cholesterol-related issues.

The lack of symptoms doesn’t mean it’s nothing to worry about, particularly given your dietary habits and family history, which do put you at a higher risk. From your end, lifestyle changes such as incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and fiber can have a positive impact. Reducing saturated fats and trans fats found in fried foods and red meat is also key. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight further reduce risks. Smoking cessation if applicable, and stress management like deep breathing exercises might also help.

You’re correct, some individuals indeed show no overt symptoms, so it’s great you’re proactive about wanting to manage your health. If concerns persist, do discuss further testing or monitoring with your healthcare provider; sometimes lipid panels, along with more detailed imaging or stress tests, can provide clarity. Never hesitate to go for an evaluation if you’re unsure about symptoms, especially when heart health is involved. It’s better to be on the safe side with these things, and your doctor can help set up a monitoring or treatment plan that’s right for you.

6475 answered questions
75% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions