Cholesterol is a type of lipid in the blood. High cholesterol is
an abnormally high level of cholesterol in the blood. There are
different types of cholesterol in your blood including: - Low
density lipoproteins (LDL)—causes build up of cholesterol and
other fats in the blood vessels. Known as bad cholesterol
because high levels can cause disease in the arteries and heart
disease. - High density lipoproteins (HDL)—can remove
cholesterol and other fats from the blood. Known as good
cholesterol because it may protect against heart disease.
Factors that may increase your risk of high cholesterol include:
It is rare for high cholesterol to cause symptoms. However, high
cholesterol can increase your risk of atherosclerosis. This is a
dangerous hardening of the arteries. It can block the flow of
blood. Some complications of atherosclerosis include: Some
people with high cholesterol may also have cholesterol deposits
in tendons, under the eyes, or in the eye. Your doctor will ask
about your symptoms and medical hist