Ailments & ConditionsYour Health

High Cholesterol Effects to Health

Cardiovascular System

When too much cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it may block the blood flow and make the blood vessels less flexible. This leads to a condition called atherosclerosis or the hardening of the arteries. Stiff arteries do not allow blood to flow properly. As a result, the heart has to push harder to transmit blood through these areas. Heart disease may occur over time when plaque forms gradually.

Sometimes, you may experience angina or chest pain. It occurs when plaque buildup caused by high cholesterol levels affects the blood flow that carries oxygen to the heart. In worse cases, a clot may be formed and fully block the blood flow to the heart, resulting in a heart attack. [2]