High cholesterol often shows no symptoms, especially in UK

High cholesterol is often called a "silent killer" because it usually has no noticeable warning signs. Recent data indicates that nearly half of all adults in the UK may be affected. High cholesterol increases the risk of serious health problems like stroke and heart disease, which cause over 100,000 deaths each year. Cholesterol is necessary for our body, but too much of the wrong type can lead to artery hardening, known as atherosclerosis. Many people only find out they have high cholesterol through blood tests. However, there are some signs that may appear. These include swollen tendons, yellowish lumps on the skin, cholesterol deposits on eyelids, erectile dysfunction, and deposits in the eye's cornea. It's important to note that just because you don't have these symptoms doesn't mean you are free of high cholesterol. Doctors may suggest cholesterol testing based on factors like age, weight, and health conditions, particularly for those over 40. The NHS recommends healthy cholesterol levels as below 5mmol/L for total cholesterol, above 1.0mmol/L for men and 1.2mmol/L for women for good cholesterol, and less than 4mmol/L for bad cholesterol. To lower cholesterol, the NHS advises reducing fatty foods but not eliminating all fats. Instead, focus on healthier unsaturated fats found in nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and oily fish. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can also help reduce cholesterol levels.