To Identify High Cholesterol – Essential Signs and Tests in 2024
High cholesterol is a silent condition that can pose serious health risks, especially to the heart and blood vessels.
Understanding the signs, risk factors and importance of early diagnosis is essential to prevent serious complications, such as heart attacks and strokes. In this article, you will find out how to identify if you have high cholesterol, which tests to perform and how to act to control the levels of this substance in your blood.
What is cholesterol and why can it be dangerous?
Cholesterol is an essential fat for the functioning of the human body, being a fundamental part of cell membranes and a precursor of hormones and vitamin D. It is transported by the blood in two main forms:
- LDL (bad cholesterol): At high levels, it can build up in artery walls, causing atherosclerosis.
- HDL (good cholesterol): It helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries, taking it back to the liver.
The danger of high cholesterol lies in the fact that it often has no obvious symptoms until it causes serious complications, such as blocked arteries.
How do I know if I have high cholesterol?
Although high cholesterol does not have specific symptoms, some approaches can help identify the problem:
1. Regular blood tests
The most reliable method of knowing if you have high cholesterol is to perform periodic blood tests, known as lipid profile. This test measures levels of:
- Total cholesterol
- LDL
- HDL
- Triglycerides
Experts recommend that people over 20 years of age take this exam at least every five years, or more frequently, depending on risk factors.
2. Risk factors
If you meet any of the risk factors below, you are more likely to have high cholesterol:
- Family history: Genetic tendencies can contribute significantly.
- Poor diet: Diets high in saturated and trans fats increase LDL levels.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of exercise reduces good cholesterol (HDL).
- Obesity: It is strongly associated with high cholesterol.
- Medical conditions: Diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease can contribute to high cholesterol.
3. Pay attention to indirect signs
Although rare, some signs may be associated with high cholesterol:
- Xanthelasmas: Small yellowish fat pockets around the eyes.
- Angina: Chest pain caused by blocked coronary arteries.
What should I do if my cholesterol is high?
If the test confirms high cholesterol levels, it is important to take action to avoid complications. See the main strategies:
Adopt a balanced diet
Choose foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Cut back on fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and processed foods.
Practice physical exercises
Regular activities such as walking, running or swimming can increase HDL and reduce LDL.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Both habits negatively affect cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.
Consult a doctor
In more severe cases, medications such as statins may be prescribed to control cholesterol levels.
Prevention: the best strategy
Preventing high cholesterol involves lifestyle changes. Even if you don't have any symptoms or obvious risk factors, taking care of your diet and maintaining an active routine can protect your health in the long term.
Personal Analysis
Knowing whether you have high cholesterol requires regular checkups and risk factors. This silent condition can be controlled with lifestyle changes and proper medical monitoring. Don't wait until complications arise to take action. Prevention is always the best way to live a long, healthy life.
References
- Ministry of Health. Available at: saude.gov.br. Accessed on November 28, 2024.
- Mayo Clinic. Available at: mayoclinic.org. Accessed on November 28, 2024.
- Brazilian Society of Cardiology. Available at: cardiol.br. Accessed on November 28, 2024.
