High cholesterol symptoms
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High Cholesterol Symptoms: Insights from Recent Research
Familial Hypercholesterolemia and Cardiovascular Symptoms
Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder characterized by extremely high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol due to an abnormality in LDL receptor function. This condition often leads to premature atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls, potentially leading to cardiovascular diseases.
In a study of 16 patients with homozygous FH, those with symptoms of myocardial ischemia (reduced blood flow to the heart) had significantly higher LDL cholesterol levels compared to asymptomatic patients. Symptoms in these patients included left or right coronary ostial narrowing and significant left ventricular outflow obstruction. A notable physical finding was a femoral bruit, which is a sound made by turbulent blood flow in the femoral artery, correlating with the presence of cardiovascular symptoms.
High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Mortality
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol. However, extremely high levels of HDL cholesterol have been associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. A large-scale pooled analysis of Japanese cohorts found that extremely high HDL cholesterol levels were significantly associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic CVD mortality, including coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke. This risk was particularly evident among current drinkers.
Elevated Serum Uric Acid and Dyslipidemia
Serum Uric Acid (SUA) levels have been linked to dyslipidemia, which is an abnormal amount of lipids in the blood. A five-year cohort study in Japan revealed that high baseline SUA levels were an independent risk factor for developing high LDL cholesterol and hypertriglyceridemia (high levels of triglycerides in the blood). This suggests that elevated SUA may play a role in the development of cardiovascular diseases by contributing to high LDL cholesterol levels.
Conclusion
High cholesterol, particularly in the form of elevated LDL cholesterol, is closely associated with various cardiovascular symptoms and conditions. Familial hypercholesterolemia can lead to severe cardiovascular issues from a young age, while extremely high HDL cholesterol levels and elevated serum uric acid levels also pose significant risks for cardiovascular health. Monitoring and managing cholesterol levels are crucial for preventing and mitigating these health risks.
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