Common symptoms
Usually asymptomatic
High cholesterol produces no symptoms and is detected only through blood testing
Xanthomas
Fatty deposits under the skin or around tendons in severe or familial cases
Chest pain
In advanced cardiovascular disease secondary to high cholesterol
High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) means there is too much LDL ("bad") cholesterol in the blood. Over time this leads to plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
There are no acute episodes associated with high cholesterol itself — the danger is the cumulative long-term damage to blood vessels. Detection through routine lipid panel blood testing and early treatment are critical.
Statin therapy and dietary changes can significantly lower LDL cholesterol within 4 to 6 weeks. Periodic lab monitoring of cholesterol levels and liver function is required for patients on statin therapy.