Dangerous Health Risks of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol, particularly high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), is often called the “silent threat” because it typically causes no symptoms until severe health problems arise. Over time, LDL contributes to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. Here are seven serious complications linked to high cholesterol.

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

CAD occurs when plaque builds up in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, causes arteries to harden and narrow, reducing oxygen delivery to the heart.

Symptoms of a heart attack related to CAD include:

• Chest pain or pressure (angina) that can spread to the arm, jaw, or back

• Shortness of breath

• Cold sweats, nausea, or lightheadedness

• Extreme fatigue

A heart attack happens when plaque ruptures and forms a blood clot, blocking blood flow to the heart.

2. Ischemic Stroke

A similar process occurs in arteries supplying the brain. If a plaque ruptures and a blood clot blocks a cerebral artery, the brain is deprived of oxygen, leading to a stroke.

Warning signs of stroke may include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body

• Slurred speech or confusion

• Vision loss in one or both eyes

• Dizziness or loss of balance

3. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

PAD develops when plaque clogs arteries in the limbs, especially the legs. This reduces circulation and oxygen delivery to the muscles and skin.

Symptoms include:

• Cramping pain (claudication) during walking or exercise, relieved by rest

• Numbness or weakness in the legs

• Cold or discolored skin on the feet or legs

• Slow-healing wounds

4. Renal Artery Stenosis

When plaque narrows the arteries leading to the kidneys, it can cause renal artery stenosis. The kidneys become less efficient at filtering blood, leading to:

• Elevated blood pressure (hypertension)

• Decreased kidney function and, in severe cases, chronic kidney disease

5. Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia

High cholesterol can also impact blood flow to the intestines. When the arteries supplying the gut become blocked, it leads to mesenteric ischemia.

Key symptoms include:

• Severe stomach pain 15–30 minutes after eating

• Unintentional weight loss

• Fear of eating due to pain

6. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Narrowed arteries from plaque buildup force the heart to pump harder, raising blood pressure. Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of:

• Heart failure

• Kidney disease

• Stroke

• Vision loss

High blood pressure can also worsen plaque formation, creating a dangerous cycle.

7. Xanthomas

Very high cholesterol, often from familial hypercholesterolemia, can cause fatty deposits under the skin called xanthomas. These appear as firm, yellowish bumps, often on the Achilles tendons or hands.

Key Takeaways

High cholesterol quietly damages arteries over time, leading to dangerous conditions like heart attack, stroke, and PAD. A simple blood test can reveal your cholesterol levels. Healthy lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and in some cases, medications can help lower LDL and prevent complications.

Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for more health insights.