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High cholesterol is something to be avoided, or so we are told through magazine and TV commercials espousing the benefits of the latest cholesterol reducing drug. Unfortunately these advertisements are correct in that having high levels of this fatty lipid in our bodies can be dangerous, and in many cases fatally so. High cholesterol itself does not normally cause any symptoms but high levels of it in the blood stream can signify and increased risk for other life threatening health problems. This means that most people have no idea as to what their cholesterol levels are until they have a blood test. In fact even healthy and active people can have high cholesterol levels because of their genetic pre-disposition, which points out why it is important that everyone have their levels tested at least once a year. Much like hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol is a very large and invisible danger to those who have it. Here's why. High cholesterol itself is not a disease but having abnormal amounts in the blood causes the accumulation and formation of plaque deposits in your arteries. These plaques are comprised primarily of cholesterol, fatty deposits, fibrous tissues, and calcium. This build up of plaque in your arteries lead to atherosclerosis which is a hardening and obstruction of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of heart disease and increases the risk of stroke. As the arteries become blocked the heart has to work harder, raising blood pressure and increasing the chances of a heart attack. These plaques can also break loose and lodge in the smaller veins and arteries of the brain causing a stroke. High cholesterol is not something that should be ignored. If you are found to have high levels it is important to make some serious lifestyle changes to bring those levels down. This can include diet, exercise, and in extreme cases prescription medications. High cholesterol is a symptom of something else, something that may have a far more deadly effect on your life. Don't let high cholesterol be a silent killer, take the necessary steps to protect yourself. For more information about how to reduce cholesterol please visit the website Lowering Cholesterol by clicking here.
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