Cholesterol is a fatty, waxy substance that is needed to develop healthy cells. However, too much cholesterol can cause health problems. High cholesterol can be inherited or caused by unhealthy eating and lack of exercise. Prevention includes limiting foods that are high in cholesterol, exercising regularly and talking with a medical professional about any questions or types of medication.
Atherosclerosis
Uncontrolled high cholesterol can cause atherosclerosis, which occurs when plaque builds up in the artery walls. Plaque is a substance that is made up of cholesterol, fat and calcium. When plaque builds up in the artery walls it causes the arteries to become hard and narrow. The arteries provide blood and oxygen to the body and when blocked, the blood and oxygen cannot pass through. This can result in a stroke or heart attack. The Heart Lung and Blood Institute reports that signs and symptoms of atherosclerosis can include chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness or pain in limbs. Nevertheless, some people won't experience any symptoms.
Heart Attack
When cholesterol builds up in the artery walls and blocks oxygen and blood flow, a person is at risk of having a heart attack. During a heart attack, the plaque ruptures and forms a clot that can block the arteries from receiving blood and oxygen, and the heart muscles begin to die. If blood flow is restored in time, through cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, the heart can sometimes be revived. According to MayoClinic.com, signs and symptoms of a heart attack can include shortness of breath, chest pain, sweating, fainting, nausea and vomiting and pain beginning in the chest and radiating to the shoulder, arm, back, or even to the teeth and jaw. People who are experiencing any of these signs and symptoms should seek medical treatment immediately.
Stroke
When the arteries to the brain become blocked or narrowed due to high cholesterol, blood and oxygen can't get to the brain. When brain cells don't get enough oxygen and blood, they begin to die and a person can suffer a stroke. Signs and symptoms include difficulty speaking or slurred speech, difficulty walking, paralysis or numbness on one side of the face or body, blurred, double or blackened vision, MayoClinic.com states. Some people experience a sudden, severe headache that can result in vomiting, dizziness or altered consciousness. Strokes require immediate medical treatment.
