Are you experiencing extreme fatigue and nausea? Well, then don’t tell your mom about it because she will blame your phone for sure. On the other hand, observe for more symptoms such as chest pain. You might have heard adults usually experience chest pain. Have you ever wondered why that is so? That’s because of Hypercholesterolemia. In this article, we’ll explain to you all about LDL, HDL, and cholesterol.
Normally, people above 40 are prone to hypercholesterolemia. However, this isn’t any genetic disease or communicative disease. It is the “As you sow, so shall you reap” case here. This is because what a person eats after 18 turns out to be what he would live by after 40. Let’s dig into the details from the medical point of view!
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a lipid in the human body that is an important compound of human cells. It makes up a portion of cell membranes and helps in vitamin D synthesis. It has two types
- LDL | Bad Cholesterol
- HDL | Good Cholesterol
Why HDL is called Good cholesterol?
HDL stands for high density lipoproteins. HDL is called good cholesterol because it takes LDL back to the liver. This is because HDL protects the body from heart attacks and strokes.
Why LDL is called Bad cholesterol?
LDL stands for low density lipoproteins. It is called bad cholesterol because it gets accumulated in the walls of blood vessels. This is extremely alarming because it prevents blood flow. Hurdles in blood flow result in disturbed circulation.
Further, the accumulation of LDL in vessels leads to a disease known as atherosclerosis. In this condition, the plaque often bursts to lead to blood clot formation. On the other hand, it increases the risk of cardiovascular problems such as cardiac arrest.
If you have a hypercholesterolemia family history then you must get a regular checkup every four to six years. The levels described by the experts are:
Borderline: 130-159 mg/dL
High: 160-189 mg/dL
What is hypercholesterolemia?
High cholesterol is well recognized as a “Silent Killer.” This is because of the fact that it lacks symptoms. You can only get it identified via a blood test. The symptoms are either so common or unexpressive. There are few methods you can use to normalize your high blood pressure. This can be done by reducing saturated fats intake. These fats are usually found in full-fat dairy products and beef (red meat) in the highest quantity. Reduced intake of these products will decrease the level of LDL that automatically normalizes the cholesterol level.
Further, you can have fish that is rich in Omega-3 to prevent red meat intake. Fish contains unsaturated fats that are healthy for the body. Also, try to use olive oil in cooking. Lastly, add vegetables, legumes, cereals, beans, grains, and nuts to your diet.
Symptoms:
- Angina/chest pain
- Fatigue
- Numbness in extremities
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
People with heart disease should monitor their LDL levels on monthly basis. This is because CVS patients are prone to such problems. Their LDL must be less than 70mg/Dl. Moreover, diabetic people should also monitor LDL levels frequently. Their levels must be less than 100dL.
Outside the heart, blockage of arteries can lead to inflammation, swelling, and muscular weakness. Constricted arteries can also lead to stroke formation. Carotid arteries are present around the neck, they are also affected. Lastly, cardiac arrest proves to be fatal mostly.
How to get rid of hypercholesterolemia?
Regular exercise with a healthy balanced diet can do wonders. You can aim for a walk on daily basis. This walk would be beneficial if accompanied by a physical workout. Furthermore, losing weight is very important. These lipid issues come with fat accumulation which is very common in obese people.