Your body needs cholesterol to synthesize hormones and aid in digestion. Your body makes cholesterol, but it is also present in certain foods. Two types of cholesterol are in the body: high-density lipoprotein, or good cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein, or bad cholesterol. When the amount of LDL in your bloodstream is too high, deposits can be left in the blood vessels and arteries. Unfortunately, though, a high cholesterol level rarely causes symptoms, which is why regular cholesterol testing is so important. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends that all people older than 20 get their cholesterol checked at least once every five years.
Xanthomas
When cholesterol levels are extremely high, you can develop deposits of cholesterol in your skin. These deposits, called xanthomas, may be felt under the skin on or near the tendons, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. They may also be present on the cornea and under the eyes. Xanthomas most commonly are found in people whose high cholesterol is an inherited condition, called familial hypercholesterolemia, MedlinePlus reports.
Angina
Angina--a condition that causes chest pain and discomfort--can also be a sign of excessive blood cholesterol levels. Angina develops when blood does not flow properly through the blood vessels, which can develop when cholesterol builds up, according to MedlinePlus.
Atherosclerosis
A heart condition called atherosclerosis--in which fatty deposits harden along artery walls--develops a a result of high cholesterol, according to the Langone Medical Center at New York University. However, like high cholesterol, atherosclerosis itself rarely causes symptoms until the buildup is severe.
Heart Attack
Although a heart attack is a separate, life-threatening condition, in many cases it may be the first sign a person has high cholesterol. Because high blood cholesterol levels cause arteries and blood vessels to narrow due to fatty deposits, a person can suffer a heart attack if a blockage occurs. Signs of a heart attack include chest pain, pain or discomfort in the arms or back, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and lightheadedness.
