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Effect of high cholesterol
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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #12507
47 days ago
126

Effect of high cholesterol - #12507

Om

I am struggling with some health issues lately, and I'm really concerned about the effect of high cholesterol on my body. A few weeks ago, I went for my annual check-up, and my doctor told me my cholesterol levels were through the roof. Like, they were way higher than they should be. I mean, I've always thought cholesterol was just a number, but now I'm feeling like it could really be impacting my health. I’ve noticed some weird symptoms like fatigue and occasionally sharp pains in my chest, which isn’t cool at all!! I can't shake this feeling that maybe the effect of high cholesterol is something I should really pay attention to. My dad had heart disease, and it scares me thinking about what might be coming my way. I’ve tried to eat better, cutting out fried stuff and eating more vegetables, but every time I check my blood pressure, it doesn't seem to budge. How soon can I see results from lifestyle changes? Like, what’s a reasonable time frame for the effect of high cholesterol to start showing some improvement? Also, should I be doing more than just diet changes? Do you think medication is something I should consider?? Thanks for any advice, I'm just trying to not freak out but it's hard when your health feels like a ticking time bomb!

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High cholesterol levels can indeed have significant effects on the body. When cholesterol levels are elevated, it can contribute to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, increasing your risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack or stroke. It’s understandable to be concerned, especially with a family history of heart disease. The symptoms you’re experiencing, such as fatigue and sharp chest pains, need careful consideration. While high cholesterol itself typically doesn’t cause symptoms, these could indicate underlying cardiovascular issues that require prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional. Addressing lifestyle changes is a great start. Diet modifications can have a noticeable impact, but it’s essential to be realistic about the time frame. It can take about three to six months of consistent healthier eating habits to see significant changes in cholesterol levels. However, this varies from person to person, and some might observe improvements earlier with rigorous implementation. Incorporating regular physical activity — at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, along with strength training — can also have a substantial effect on your cholesterol and overall heart health. Don’t just stop at dietary changes; a comprehensive approach is needed. As for medication, discussing it with your healthcare provider is crucial, particularly if lifestyle changes alone are insufficient or if your cholesterol levels are significantly high due to familial hypercholesterolemia. Statins are commonly used to lower LDL cholesterol, but a doctor would best determine their necessity after reviewing your individual risk factors and current health status. If any symptoms like chest pain persist, or you suspect a heart issue, seek immediate medical attention to rule out urgent conditions. Your safety is paramount, so don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about further diagnostic tests or interventions that might be appropriate.

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