Cause 8. High Cholesterol: The Unseen Danger
Another prominent cause of heart disease lies in the realm of blood lipids – high cholesterol. Cholesterol, a waxy substance found in your blood, is essential for building healthy cells. However, when levels rise, it can be detrimental to heart health.
High levels of LDL cholesterol, often dubbed the “bad” cholesterol, can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. These plaques narrow the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart, leading to angina (chest pain), heart attacks, or heart failure.
On the flip side, low levels of HDL, the “good” cholesterol, can also increase heart disease risk. HDL cholesterol helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream, preventing their accumulation and the subsequent formation of plaques.
Hence, maintaining balanced cholesterol levels is paramount for heart health, and any disturbances can contribute significantly to heart disease. (8)
