When it is elevated, cholesterol is deposited on the walls of blood vessels, forming a plaque that narrows the blood vessels and reduces the flow and supply of oxygen and nutrients to the organs. Due to its susceptibility to cracking, plaque is the cause of the formation of clots that over time completely close veins or arteries, causing, among other things, a stroke or heart attack.
When to suspect high cholesterol?
Legs
Narrowing or blockage of the veins that carry blood from the heart to the legs due to high cholesterol can lead to leg pain.
Hips
This condition in which narrowed blood vessels reduce blood flow to the limbs is called peripheral arterial disease and can cause pain in the hip area.
Feet
Burning sensations and pain in the feet while resting can be a symptom of high cholesterol.
Chest
If the affected arteries that supply blood to your heart cause chest pain, you may suspect high cholesterol.
Back
High cholesterol can lead to lower back pain due to thickening or hardening of the arteries that feed our spine.
Armpits
Although peripheral arterial disease is more commonly associated with the legs, it can also cause pain in the armpits.
Joints
Cholesterol can cause oxidative stress to cartilage cells, which can eventually lead to joint pain.
Stomach
Abdominal pain can occur due to an enlarged liver or spleen, which can be signs of high cholesterol levels.
How to avoid high cholesterol
Consuming nutritionally valuable food, regular exercise and movement, quitting smoking, losing excess body weight and reducing alcohol intake will ensure the return of cholesterol to the desired level, it says. i live.hr.
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