High cholesterol can be very well termed as the "silent killer." It catches on to this name because it rarely shows obvious symptoms until it leads to severe health complications. But how do we detect it before it's too late? By tuning into our bodies and understanding the hidden clues, we can take charge of our health.
Here is everything you need to know about this ‘silent killer,’ right from what cholesterol is, and why it can become a problem, to the silent signs that might signal an issue. What is cholesterol and why does it matter? Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance naturally produced by the liver. It’s vital for building cells, producing hormones, and digesting foods.
But not all cholesterol is created equal. There are two main types: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Known as "bad cholesterol," high levels can clog arteries. High-density lipoprotein ( HDL ): Known as "good cholesterol," it helps remove LDL from your bloodstream.
The problem begins when there’s too much LDL in the blood. This can stick to the walls of our arteries, leading to blockages that increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. "High cholesterol, or dyslipidemia, often shows no symptoms but poses a significant health risk due to modern lifestyles marked by poor habits like smoking, alcohol consumption, and sedentary behavior.
Without early detection, it can lead to severe conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and fatty liver disease, which may progress to liver failure. For In.