High cholesterol: The sign on your face that can be 'itchy or tender to touch' - doctor
High cholesterol is when you have too much of a fatty substance called cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol, which is produced by your liver, is essential in the production of healthy cells, vitamin D and certain hormones. However, as Doctor Brian Clapp, Consultant Cardiologist for The Cardiac Clinic at London Bridge Hospital (part of HCA UK), explained, if you have too much “bad cholesterol” in your blood it can hike your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
“People who have familial hypercholesterolaemia face a higher risk of heart disease due to the amount of time they have had high levels of LDL compared to someone who develops high cholesterol later on in life,” explained Doctor Clapp.
Get tested
“Even without symptoms it is important to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly by your GP to ensure they are healthy,” advised Doctor Clapp.
According to the NHS, you can only find out if you have it from a blood test.
“Your GP might suggest having a test if they think your cholesterol level could be high,” explains the health body.
