High cholesterol
High Cholesterol
High cholesterol (pronunciation: /haɪ kəˈlɛstəˌroʊl/) is a medical condition characterized by an excessive amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream.
Etymology
The term "cholesterol" is derived from the Ancient Greek words chole (bile) and stereos (solid), and the chemical suffix -ol for an alcohol. The prefix "high" is used to denote an excessive or above normal level.
Definition
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that's found in all the cells in your body. It is used to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods. However, when the levels of cholesterol in the blood become too high, it can lead to various health issues, most notably heart disease and stroke.
Causes
High cholesterol can be caused by a variety of factors. These include unhealthy lifestyle choices such as a diet high in saturated fats and lack of physical activity. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can also increase the risk of developing high cholesterol. In some cases, high cholesterol can be hereditary, a condition known as familial hypercholesterolemia.
Symptoms
High cholesterol typically does not cause any symptoms. It is usually detected through a blood test. If left untreated, high cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, which can cause symptoms such as chest pain or a heart attack.
Treatment
Treatment for high cholesterol typically involves lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking. Medications such as statins, bile acid sequestrants, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and fibrates may also be prescribed.
Related Terms
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as "bad cholesterol". High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to a buildup of cholesterol in the arteries.
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL): Often referred to as "good cholesterol". HDL cholesterol carries cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver, which removes the cholesterol from your body.
- Triglycerides: A type of fat found in your blood. High levels of triglycerides can increase the risk of heart disease.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on High cholesterol
- Wikipedia's article - High cholesterol
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