Consistently high levels of low-density lipoprotein, known as LDL or "bad" cholesterol in the blood can lead to serious health issues. Other risk factors, such as smoking and obesity, accelerate the effects of high cholesterol. Most of these issues are considered "silent" complications---since they can persist for years without any noticeable symptoms.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis refers to a process in which numerous products circulating in the blood accumulate on the inner walls of arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Cholesterol, fatty materials and a clotting substance called fibrin compose the majority of the sticky buildup, and when calcium attaches to it, it hardens into plaque. As plaque deposit grows, it will create a blockage that restricts blood flow. Plaque buildup occurs naturally as people age, but high cholesterol accelerates the process, according to the American Heart Association.
Coronary Heart Disease and Heart Attack
The coronary arteries supply blood to the heart. Restricted blood flow caused by high cholesterol and atherosclerosis in these arteries result in a type of coronary heart disease. Symptoms include chest pain and tightness---called angina---and shortness of breath. A plaque deposit can rupture and tear from an artery, causing a blood clot to form, according to the Mayo Clinic. If the blood clot blocks blood flow to the heart, a heart attack can occur. Symptoms of a heart attack are similar to those of coronary heart disease and can also include excessive sweating, nausea, weakness and lightheadedness.
Stroke
The American Heart Association says plaque deposits and blood clots can tear off and circulate in the bloodstream. The clot can lodge in an artery leading to the brain, and the subsequent blockage of blood and oxygen flow can result in a stroke. Stroke symptoms include trouble walking, impaired speech, paralysis or numbness on one side of the face or body, trouble with sight and headache.
Gangrene
If a circulating blood clot blocks an artery to one of the arms or legs, it can lead to reduced blood and oxygen to the area. Restricted oxygen over a prolonged period of time can lead to gangrene, according to the Mayo Clinic, which is the death and decay of living tissue. Symptoms of gangrene include blue or black discoloration of the skin and severe pain followed by numbness.
