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high ldl cholesterol symptoms
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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #14070
45 days ago
110

high ldl cholesterol symptoms - #14070

Priya

I am a bit worried because I've been feeling kind of weird lately. A few weeks back, I went for my annual check-up, and my doctor mentioned that I should really keep an eye on my high LDL cholesterol levels. At first, I was like, “okay, whatever,” but then I started looking into high LDL cholesterol symptoms. I've been having these nagging weird pains in my chest and my legs get super tired after just a little walking, even sometimes when I'm just sitting around. My mom has heart issues, and that just kinda adds to my worry level. Does high LDL cholesterol symptoms really include fatigue and chest pain, or am I just imagining things? My dad told me that high LDL cholesterol symptoms can be kind of silent but also really dangerous, which freaks me out even more. I tried to eat healthier since the appointment, but it’s hard to figure it all out. Can someone who knows about high LDL cholesterol symptoms tell me if those pains are connected or if I’m just overreacting? Like, what else should I even look out for? Am I in serious trouble, or can it just be fixed with lifestyle changes?

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Doctors’ responses

High LDL cholesterol, often referred to as ‘bad’ cholesterol, tends not to directly cause symptoms which makes it tricky as your dad mentioned - it’s indeed called a “silent” issue for a reason. Elevated LDL levels can contribute to the build-up of fatty deposits in your arteries, known as plaque, which over time can lead to atherosclerosis. This narrowing and hardening of the arteries can reduce blood flow and potentially lead to symptoms like chest pain (especially during physical activity), a condition called angina. Fatigue and pain in your legs during exercise could suggest peripheral artery disease, another potential consequence of atherosclerosis. Given your family history of heart issues, it’s crucial to take any unusual symptoms seriously. Your doctor already pointed out your LDL levels for a reason—it’s a risk factor you can manage. Making lifestyle changes can indeed make a significant impact. Focus on a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats like those from fish or avocados. Regular cardiovascular exercise is crucial too, though start light if you’re currently inactive. Weight management, smoking cessation, and moderating alcohol intake also help lower cholesterol levels. Since you’re experiencing both chest pain and your mom’s history adds to your risk factors, you shouldn’t wait to see if things get worse. Consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible to assess your cardiovascular health fully. They might recommend an ECG, stress test, or other evaluations depending on their examination. Early intervention is key. Remember, medications like statins can also be part of a treatment plan if lifestyle modifications alone aren’t enough to control your LDL levels after addressing your risks and active symptoms. Taking action now can prevent more significant problems down the road.

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