High Cholesterol Warning Signs:  Cholesterol is a type of waxy substance found in our body. It plays an important role in building cell walls and some hormones. However, when cholesterol levels increase, it accumulates on the walls of blood vessels and increases the risk of heart diseases, stroke and other health problems (High Cholesterol Causes). Therefore, it is important that cholesterol levels remain under control (Cholesterol Prevention Tips) and if it starts increasing, it can be detected as soon as possible. Therefore, here we are going to tell some such symptoms, which indicate increased cholesterol.

Signs of High Cholesterol

There are no specific symptoms in the initial stages of increased cholesterol. This is why it is often called a "silent killer". However, when the cholesterol level becomes very high, some symptoms may appear, such as-

• Fatigue- Due to high cholesterol, the body parts do not get enough oxygen, which leads to fatigue and weakness.
• Headache- Increased cholesterol can increase blood pressure, which can cause headache.
• Chest pain – High cholesterol can narrow blood vessels, causing chest pain or angina.
• Leg pain: High cholesterol can cause the arteries in your legs to narrow, causing pain while walking .
• Skin changes – High cholesterol can cause the skin to become yellow or blotchy.
• Changes in nails – High cholesterol can cause nails to turn yellow and develop cracks.

Causes of increased cholesterol

There can be many reasons for increased cholesterol, which include-

• Unhealthy diet – Eating foods high in fat and cholesterol can increase cholesterol levels.
• Physical inactivity – Not exercising regularly or not being physically active can increase cholesterol levels.
• Obesity- Obesity is a major cause of high cholesterol.
• Smoking . Smoking damages blood vessels and can increase cholesterol levels.
• Diabetes- Diabetic patients have a higher risk of increasing cholesterol.

Diseases caused by increased cholesterol

High cholesterol can cause many serious health problems, including:

• Heart diseases- High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart diseases.
• Stroke – High cholesterol can increase the risk of stroke.
• Peripheral artery disease— High cholesterol can narrow the arteries in the legs , causing pain when walking.

How to control cholesterol?

• Healthy Diet- Eat low-fat foods and include foods rich in fiber and protein in your diet.
• Regular exercise- Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes every day.
• Lose weight- If you are obese, try to lose weight.
• Quit smoking – If you smoke, quit completely.
• Take medicines- If your cholesterol level is very high, your doctor may advise you to take medicines.