El high cholesterol It is widely known as the “silent killer” due to the absence of obvious symptoms in its early stages. However, over time, its effects can cause severe cardiovascular problems, increasing the risk of diseases such as arteriosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.
What is cholesterol and why is it essential for the body?
Cholesterol is a waxy fatty substance that is produced naturally by the liver and is also present in certain foods of animal origin such as meat, dairy products and eggs. Its function within the body is essential for:
- The formation and maintenance of cell membranes.
- Production hormones essential such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
- The synthesis of vitamin D, key to calcium absorption and bone health.
- Production bile acids, which contribute to the digestion of fats.
Cholesterol is transported through the blood bound to proteins called lipoproteinsThere are two main types:
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: Also called "bad cholesterol," it carries cholesterol particles throughout the body, accumulating on the walls of the arteries and promoting the formation of plaques that harden and narrow blood vessels.
- HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: Known as “good cholesterol,” it helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries and transports it back to the liver for disposal.
How can high cholesterol cause fatigue and other symptoms?
Although high cholesterol usually does not present obvious symptoms, it can cause health problems that manifest with signs such as:
- Constant fatigue: Cholesterol buildup in the arteries reduces blood flow and decreases the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, causing fatigue.
- Headache: Poor blood circulation affects the brain, causing recurring headaches and difficulty concentrating.
- Dizziness and blurred vision: Poor blood flow to the brain can cause a feeling of unsteadiness.
- Numbness and tingling in extremities: Poor circulation in the arms and legs can cause abnormal skin sensations.
Other signs of high cholesterol
When high cholesterol remains untreated for years, more serious conditions can develop, such as:
- Chest pain (angina): A clear symptom that the coronary arteries are clogged.
- Fatty deposits on the skin (xanthomas): They may appear as yellowish bumps on the eyelids or elbows.
- High blood pressure: As a result of hardening of the arteries.
Main causes of high cholesterol
High cholesterol can have multiple causes, including:
- Inadequate feeding: Diets high in saturated fats, refined sugars and processed carbohydrates increase LDL levels.
- Lack of exercise: Physical inactivity reduces HDL cholesterol and allows LDL to build up in the body.
- Smoking: Smoking lowers good cholesterol levels and damages blood vessel walls.
- Genetic factors: Some people are born predisposed to high cholesterol levels due to a condition called familial hypercholesterolemia.
How to reduce high cholesterol?
To control cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health, it is recommended:
- Adopt a healthy diet: Including more fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains in your diet helps reduce LDL cholesterol.
- Perform regular physical exercise: Practices such as walking, swimming or cycling for at least 30 minutes a day can improve cholesterol levels.
- Reduce alcohol and tobacco consumption: These substances harm arterial health and increase cardiovascular risk.
- Consult with a specialist: If necessary, a doctor may recommend medications such as statins to keep cholesterol levels under control.
High cholesterol is a health problem that can go unnoticed for years, but its long-term effects can be serious. Carrying a balance diet, Do exercise regularly and control the risk factor's stress and smoking are key to preventing complications. A regular medical check-up can make a difference in caring for your heart and preventing cardiovascular diseases.
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