what happens when cholesterol is high - #14812
I am really worried because my latest blood test showed that my cholesterol is high. Like, I've been trying to eat healthier for months now, but I've been feeling more fatigued than usual and have occasional chest pains, which kinda freaks me out. My diet is mainly whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, but sometimes I indulge in pizza or burgers, you know? My doc said, “What happens when cholesterol is high can be serious,” and that scares me because I've heard it can lead to heart disease, but I don't fully get it. I mean, are there any warning signs I should look for? I'm only in my 40s and thought I was doing fine, honestly. Is there something specific I should be doing to lower it? Plus, I read online that not all cholesterol is bad, and I feel so confused. How do I even know which kind I have? Should I be taking medication or just changing my diet more? I really want to figure out what happens when cholesterol is high and avoid the whole serious health scare thing! Any advice would be super helpful.
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Doctors’ responses
When cholesterol is high, it means your body has more LDL (low-density lipoprotein, often called “bad” cholesterol) potentially floating around. High levels can indeed contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke over time. Your experiences of fatigue and chest pains warrant further evaluation, as these could be warning signs of more pressing cardiovascular issues. It’s important to determine whether these symptoms might be linked to elevated cholesterol or other conditions. Given your situation, you should speak with your doctor about potentially having a more detailed lipid panel done, which can determine the exact levels of not only LDL but also HDL (high-density lipoprotein or “good” cholesterol) and triglycerides in your body. This comprehensive assessment can guide more accurate diagnosis and treatment. Lifestyle modifications are critical; it sounds like you’ve already made healthy strides, but even small adjustments can make a big difference. Focus on incorporating more omega-3-rich foods such as flaxseeds and fish like salmon, opting for healthy fats like olive oil, and ensuring regular physical activity. Limiting intake of pizza and burgers further can help. Medication like statins might be necessary depending on your profile and risk factors—consult with your doctor about this possibility. Always reach out for medical advice if your chest pain persists or worsens. While diet and exercise are key, it’s crucial to be vigilant about your symptoms and follow through with prompt medical evaluation to rule out underlying issues.
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