LDL cholesterol is a type of fat carried in your blood. Although it is known as “bad cholesterol” among the public, it is actually necessary for certain functions of your body. However, when its level rises too high, it can accumulate in vessel walls and lead to serious health problems. High LDL cholesterol, which is one of the most important causes of conditions such as heart attack and stroke, usually progresses without any symptoms. Therefore, it is of great importance to monitor its level with regular check-ups.
What is LDL Cholesterol?
LDL cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein) is a lipoprotein particle that takes cholesterol from the liver and carries it to cells in your body. Cholesterol is necessary for vital functions such as cell membrane construction and hormone production. However, when the amount of LDL in your blood increases, this excess cholesterol begins to accumulate on the inner surface of your vessels and over time forms a hard layer called plaque.
These plaques narrow your vessels, slowing or completely stopping blood flow. This condition is called atherosclerosis (arterial hardening). This is why LDL is called “bad cholesterol”; because high levels pose a threat to your vascular health.
What Should LDL Cholesterol Values Be?
Your LDL cholesterol level varies according to your specific health condition and risk factors. Generally, LDL levels should be below 100 mg/dL. If you have risk factors, below 70 mg/dL is targeted, and in some cases below 55 mg/dL.
The levels are as follows:
- Optimal Level (below 100 mg/dL): This is the ideal level where your risk of heart disease is lowest.
- Near Optimal Level (100-129 mg/dL): While considered healthy, you may need to be careful if you have other risk factors.
- Borderline High Level (130-159 mg/dL): This range is a sign that you need to start lifestyle changes.
- High Level (160-189 mg/dL): This is a level that usually requires medication treatment in addition to lifestyle changes.
- Very High Level (190 mg/dL and above): This level is a serious risk factor and usually requires an aggressive treatment approach.
What is LDL Cholesterol Deficiency?
LDL cholesterol deficiency is not as common a condition as high levels. Generally, if you have an LDL level below 40 mg/dL, deficiency is mentioned. Most of the time it does not indicate a health problem, but very low levels can rarely be associated with some conditions such as genetic factors, some chronic diseases such as overactive thyroid, and a very low-fat diet.
What is High LDL Cholesterol?
High LDL cholesterol is when LDL particles in your blood are more than normal. This condition prepares the ground for the formation of plaques that accumulate in vessel walls and lead to atherosclerosis. These plaques narrow and harden vessels, restricting blood flow.
The biggest danger of this condition is that it affects the arteries in your body. Plaque accumulation is the fundamental cause of life-threatening events such as heart attack and stroke. High LDL can silently sabotage your vascular health, leading to permanent damage in the long term.
Why Does LDL Cholesterol Rise?
The most important reasons for LDL cholesterol elevation are usually a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and genetic factors. Here are the main causes:
- Unhealthy Nutrition: Foods rich in saturated and trans fats (processed foods, red meat, fried foods) directly increase your LDL level.
- Sedentary Life: Not exercising regularly contributes to elevated cholesterol levels and obesity.
- Genetic Predisposition: If there is a history of high cholesterol in your family, the likelihood of it occurring in you is also high. Some genetic diseases can cause LDL levels to rise excessively.
- Obesity: Excess weight, especially fat around the abdomen, negatively affects cholesterol levels.
- Other Diseases: Conditions such as diabetes and thyroid gland diseases can also raise LDL levels.
- Age and Gender: In men after age 45, and in women after menopause, LDL levels naturally tend to rise.
Is High LDL Cholesterol Dangerous?
Yes, high LDL cholesterol is extremely dangerous. The most important reason for this is that it usually progresses without symptoms and causes permanent damage to vessels. Atherosclerosis lies at the basis of the danger.
- High LDL can lead to heart attack by blocking the vessels feeding the heart through arterial hardening and plaque formation.
- Plaques in vessels going to the brain or formed clots can cause stroke by cutting off blood flow.
- Along with high blood pressure and diabetes, high cholesterol invites chronic diseases by causing damage to vessels going to critical organs such as kidneys, eyes, and leg vessels.
What are the Symptoms of High LDL Cholesterol?
The biggest problem with high LDL cholesterol is that it often causes no symptoms. When symptoms appear, this usually means that serious blockage or damage has developed in your vessels.
- Chest Pain (Angina): Due to narrowing of heart vessels, there may be a feeling of pressure, squeezing, or pain in the chest, especially when exerting effort.
- Leg Pain: When vessels going to the legs are blocked, cramps or pain in the legs may be felt while walking.
- Fatigue and Weakness: When adequate oxygen cannot be carried to the body, a constant feeling of fatigue may occur.
- Rarely Seen Symptoms: Rare symptoms such as yellowish fat deposits around the eyelids (xanthomas) or vision impairments may also be seen.
How is LDL Cholesterol Lowered?
Lowering LDL cholesterol usually involves lifestyle changes and medication treatment that your doctor will recommend.
Adopt a diet low in saturated and trans fat, rich in fibrous foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) and healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, nuts). At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week (such as walking, cycling, swimming) helps lower your LDL level. Getting rid of excess weight can significantly lower your LDL cholesterol level. When lifestyle changes are not sufficient, your doctor will usually recommend statin group medications that reduce cholesterol production.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Having your LDL cholesterol levels checked regularly is vital even if you have no symptoms. You should especially see a doctor in the following situations:
- Have your cholesterol level checked every 4-6 years starting from age 20.
- If there are conditions such as high cholesterol, heart disease, or stroke in your family, consult a doctor for risk assessment.
- If you experience any symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg pain, apply to a healthcare facility without delay.
You can read the cholesterol or HDL cholesterol article here.
Reference: LDL
