Medical

High Cholesterol

Causes

The tendency to build up high cholesterol may run in families, but excessively high levels are usually the result of a poor diet, high in saturated fats and calories, combined with little or no exercise.

Signs/Symptoms

High cholesterol rarely gives any warning signs. If there's a tremendous excess, some people develop soft, yellowish skin growths called xanthomas, usually in the area near the eyes. Some men develop impotence as the arteries begin to clog up.

Care

The first line of attack on high cholesterol is a change in lifestyle and diet. Regular exercise, weight control, and a diet low in cholesterol and animal fat are often all that's needed to bring cholesterol levels into the safety range. If these measures fail to do the job, your doctor can then prescribe a cholesterol-lowering drug. Remember, though, that these drugs shouldn't be used as a substitute for a healthy diet. They pose a risk of damage to the liver and can harm a developing baby if taken during pregnancy.

Risks

Your chances of a heart attack increase dramatically when your cholesterol gets even moderately out of line.