Hypercholesterolemia is a condition in which the bad cholesterol in the body is at a higher level than necessary, resulting in fat deposits in blood vessels that can lead to heart attacks or strokes. Hypercholesterolemia can be caused by various factors including:
- Unhealthy diets, high in saturated or trans fats
- Lack of exercise
- Genetics and heredity
- Smoking
- Liver diseases
- Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism
- Anorexia
- Kidney issues/failure
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Certain medications
Although caused by various reasons as stated above, you are at a higher risk of developing hypercholesterolemia if you happen to relate to the following risk factors:
- Age (higher the age, the greater the chances)
- High blood pressure
- Family history of heart diseases
- Diabetes (personal or family history)
- Low levels of good cholesterol
Hypercholesterolemia is a dangerous condition, especially since it does not exhibit any symptoms. However, in rare and extreme cases, you may experience cholesterol deposits in your eyelids or connective tissues.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Hypercholesterolemia is often diagnosed through the following methods:
- Genetic testing, examining your medical history as well as family medical history
- Physical examinations
- Lipid panel blood tests
As for treatment, the best and commonly advised remedies include lifestyle changes and healthy habits. Some common treatments include:
- Staying active through exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a healthy, balanced meal, low in saturated or trans fats
- Lowering stress levels
- Avoiding smoking
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Controlling high blood pressure and blood sugar levels
Other methods can include cholesterol-lowering medications or even a lipoprotein apheresis (a device that helps take out lipoproteins from the blood).
Prevention and Remedies
Hypercholesterolemia can be prevented to a great extent by following simple lifestyle habits including:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Staying active
- Eating healthy, balanced meals
- Reducing intake of fatty foods
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
