What should I tell my doctor about my symptoms of high cholesterol?
High cholesterol itself does not cause any symptoms. Once cholesterol begins to build up in your blood vessels and contribute to hardening of the arteries, called atherosclerosis, you may develop symptoms. The symptoms will depend on which arteries are affected.
- If the arteries that supply blood to your heart are affected, you may have one or more symptoms of heart disease.
- Heart disease may also lead to heart attack.
- If the arteries that supply blood to your brain are affected, you may suddenly have one or more symptoms of stroke.
- If the arteries that supply blood to your legs are affected, you may have one or more symptoms of peripheral vascular disease
If you have any symptoms that may be related to high cholesterol, be prepared to answer questions that your doctor will likely ask at your appointment.
Even if you don't have any symptoms, see your doctor for a checkup and cholesterol test if it's been more than 5 years since you had your cholesterol checked.