High cholesterol can lead to the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaque) in the walls of your arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. These plaques can narrow and harden your arteries, significantly reducing blood flow to vital organs. This reduced blood flow can result in serious complications such as:
* Chest pain (angina)
* Heart attack
* Stroke
High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. The underlying mechanism is similar across these conditions: plaque buildup in the arteries restricts blood flow, impairing the function of the cells and organs supplied by these vessels. For instance, narrowed coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can lead to angina symptoms when the heart muscle does not receive sufficient oxygen.