Cholesterol is a waxy substance needed for cell health and hormone production. Cholesterol is produced naturally in the body and is also obtained from animal sources. Your body needs very little cholesterol from the foods you eat, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. HDL, or "good" cholesterol, can help guard against heart attacks and strokes by clearing away cholesterol from the arteries. However too much LDL or "bad" cholesterol can clog arteries and cause a number of negative effects including heart attack and stroke.
Atherosclerosis
Excessive levels of LDL or "bad" cholesterol in the blood can accumulate on the artery walls and form plaque and scar tissue. The plaques can make the artery inflexible, making it more difficult for blood to flow freely. This build-up of thick, hardened fatty deposits is known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can narrow or obstruct the steady stream of blood to the heart and brain, reports MayoClinic.com.
Coronary Artery Disease
When the heart is affected by atherosclerosis it is referred to as coronary artery disease. The coronary arteries provide blood to your heart. When the blood supply is diminished or completely severed it can lead to shortness of breath, chest pain and possibly a heart attack, reports Medline Plus.
Blood Clots
A hardened artery is more vulnerable to damage. Over time, this can lead to the formation of blood clots, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center or UPMC. Blood clots can additionally impede already sluggish blood flow. In severe cases, a blood clot can break off in clusters and become wedged in smaller arteries causing further obstruction. Sometimes blood clots grow large enough to completely block the artery and may result in a heart attack or stroke.
Stroke
A stroke can occur when atherosclerosis obstructs the arteries that carry blood to the brain. If the brain goes for an extended period without sufficient blood flow permanent disabilities may result, according to MayoClinic.com. The symptoms of a stroke may come on suddenly and include blurred vision, headache weakness, numbness, dizziness, confusion and problems with balance. Paralysis on one side of your face and body is also possible.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral Artery Disease or PAD is caused by atherosclerosis in the arteries of the legs. Symptoms may include pain, cramps, tingling or numbness in the legs. PAD is potentially serious since blood flow restriction can lead to organ failure, notes the UPMC.
