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High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)

Elevated levels of cholesterol or other fats in the blood that increase cardiovascular disease risk.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Overview

High cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, refers to elevated levels of cholesterol and/or triglycerides in the blood. While cholesterol is essential for cell membranes and hormone production, excess amounts can build up in artery walls, forming plaques that narrow blood vessels and increase heart disease and stroke risk.

Causes include genetic factors (familial hypercholesterolemia), diet high in saturated fats, obesity, lack of exercise, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and certain medications.

High cholesterol affects over 100 million Americans. It has no symptoms, which is why it's often called a "silent" condition. Regular testing is the only way to detect it before cardiovascular events occur.

Common Symptoms

  • •No direct symptoms (silent condition)
  • •Xanthomas (fatty deposits on skin or tendons)
  • •Xanthelasmas (cholesterol deposits around eyes)
  • •Corneal arcus (gray-white ring around cornea)
  • •Symptoms only appear when complications develop:
  • •Chest pain or angina
  • •Shortness of breath with exertion
  • •Heart attack symptoms
  • •Stroke symptoms
  • •Peripheral artery disease (leg pain with walking)

Key Blood Markers

LDL Cholesterol

Often elevated (>100 mg/dL or 2.6 mmol/L)

The primary driver of atherosclerosis - main target for treatment

Total Cholesterol

Often elevated (>200 mg/dL or 5.2 mmol/L)

Overall cholesterol level - includes HDL, LDL, and VLDL

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

Elevated in high cholesterol

Measures the number of atherogenic particles - considered a superior risk marker

Triglycerides

Often elevated (>150 mg/dL or 1.7 mmol/L)

Type of fat in blood - elevated levels increase cardiovascular risk

HDL Cholesterol

May be low (<40 mg/dL men, <50 mg/dL women)

Protective cholesterol - low levels increase risk

Frequently Asked Questions

What LDL level should I target?
Targets depend on risk factors. Generally: <100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L) for most adults, <70 mg/dL (1.8 mmol/L) for high-risk patients, and <55 mg/dL (1.4 mmol/L) for very high-risk. Lower is generally better for LDL.
Can diet alone lower cholesterol?
Diet and lifestyle changes typically reduce LDL by 10-20%. This may be sufficient for borderline elevations. For higher levels or those with multiple risk factors, medication is often needed to achieve targets.
Is ApoB better than LDL for assessing risk?
Yes, many experts consider ApoB a superior marker because it directly measures the number of atherogenic particles rather than the amount of cholesterol they carry. It's especially useful when triglycerides are elevated.
Does high cholesterol cause symptoms?
No, high cholesterol itself causes no symptoms. Symptoms only occur when it leads to complications like heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease. This is why regular testing is essential.

Quick Facts

  • Key Markers:5
  • Common Symptoms:10

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