Symptoms of High Cholesterol in Adults & Care

Symptoms of High Cholesterol in Adults & Care

High cholesterol in older adults is a significant health concern because it increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. With proper, customised treatment options and healthy lifestyle changes, high cholesterol levels can effectively be managed in older adults. Read on to get an overview of why high cholesterol matters in older adults and what can be done about it.

High cholesterol in older adults is a significant health concern because it increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. With proper, customised treatment options and healthy lifestyle changes, high cholesterol levels can effectively be managed in older adults. Read on to get an overview of why high cholesterol matters in older adults and what can be done about it.

Causes of High Cholesterol in Seniors

High cholesterol in seniors can result from a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and age-related factors. Here are some most common causes that can contribute to high cholesterol in old adults:

1. Unhealthy Lifestyle

• Eating foods rich in unhealthy fats (saturated fats, trans fats, etc.)

• Not following a physically active life

• Excessive smoking or drinking

2. Genetic & Family History

• Familial hypercholesterolemia or other genetic factors can cause high cholesterol regardless of diet and exercise.

• Family history of heart disease or high cholesterol increases risk, especially in older age.

3. Existing Medical Conditions

If a senior is already diagnosed with certain ailments, they are more prone to high cholesterol issues. These diseases are:

• Chronic kidney and/or liver ailments

• Diabetes

• HIV infection

• Lupus erythematosus

• Hypothyroidism

• Being overweight or obese

• Sleep apnea

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

4. Certain Medications

Medications for the following conditions can also increase the risk of high cholesterol:

• Acne (retinoid treatments)

• HIV infection (steroids)

• High blood pressure (diuretics)

• Organ transplantation procedures (immunosuppressants)

• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)

• Cancer (chemotherapy treatments)

• Angina relief (beta blockers)

5. Weight Gain or Obesity

• Ageing is often associated with slower metabolism, which can lead to weight gain if diet and activity levels are not adjusted accordingly. Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, contributes to higher cholesterol levels.

Usually, people don’t exhibit any symptoms of high cholesterol. If you fall under these risk categories, it is wise to get yourself tested to check your cholesterol levels.