Cholesterol is naturally produced by the body and is also found in regular foods and beverages. It’s a fatty substance stored in the body’s cells and produces vitamins or minerals to support vital bodily functions. The body stores both good and bad cholesterol so any imbalance in either levels can trigger high cholesterol. A buildup of high cholesterol can lead to severe health complications, making it imperative to identify the warning signs of the same.

Signs of high cholesterol
There are no direct symptoms of high cholesterol. However, high cholesterol does increase the risk of several underlying health complications that trigger the following discomforts.

Discomfort in the chest
High cholesterol greatly increases the risk of coronary heart disease. So, one might experience chest pain, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, and nausea, as a precursor. As cholesterol levels increase in the arteries, it causes a buildup of plaque, causing blockage.
Cognitive problems
Problems with cognition are also indicative signs of high cholesterol. As the plaque buildup increases blood pressure in the arteries, vital oxygen supply to the brain is cut off. This can result in loss of balance, coordination problems, dizziness, drooping eyelids, paralysis on one side, confusion, slurring, blurred vision, severe headaches, and even numbness. High cholesterol can trigger any of these precursors to a stroke.
Heart attack
Cholesterol buildup in the arteries causes plaque to form and block vital blood flow to the organ. This disruption of circulation triggers tightness in the chest, pain that radiates from the left side, shortness of breath, and excessive fatigue, indicating an imminent heart attack.
Diabetes
An imbalance in blood sugar levels is also indicative of high cholesterol in the body. Diabetics are at an elevated risk of developing high cholesterol without any warning signs until it results in plaque buildup.
High blood pressure
Cholesterol causes blockages in the arteries and forces the blood pressure to build up. High blood pressure over the normal range of 130/80 is one of the definite signs of high cholesterol. One should not ignore these symptoms as it can lead to stroke and heart disease.

Medicare coverage for high cholesterol and heart treatment
Medicare provides coverage for testing cholesterol once every five years as part of regular screening procedures. However, patients at substantial risk of developing heart disease are eligible for yearly cholesterol screenings covered under Medicare. This even includes prescription coverage for lowering cholesterol and managing heart disease.