Symptoms

• Unfortunately, no definitive symptoms alert you to the presence of excessive cholesterol in your blood. A lipoprotein profile blood test will determine your cholesterol level, and it is usually the first indication that something is awry. A family history of hypercholesterolemia increases the risk of developing the disease.
  
  

Coronary Heart Disease

• Your heart is the number one organ adversely affected by high cholesterol levels that result in excess fat accumulation in your arteries. According to MayoClinic.com, Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) may result from these fatty deposits in the arteries that transport oxygen from your lungs to your heart. As these deposits harden (atherosclerosis) and restrict blood flow, less oxygen reaches your heart.
  
  

Angina

• Angina pectoris may result from narrowed arteries as your heart strains to draw in oxygen and pump nutrient-rich blood to the rest of your body. Chest pain from angina is temporary and patients describe it as an invisible belt around the upper chest area that tightens and exerts pressure on the heart and lungs. Although it goes away, always inform your doctor about angina pain so he can assess your risk of future heart problems.
  
  

Heart Attack

• The risk of suffering a full-blown heart attack increases as more plaque forms in your arteries. If you have angina episodes that last longer than usual or if the pain is different or more intense, call your doctor immediately.
  
  

Stroke

• As fatty deposits from high cholesterol levels form in the arteries that deliver oxygen to the brain, your risk of suffering a stroke increases. The National Stroke Association recommends regular cholesterol testing for men 45 and over and women over the age of 55.
  
  

Additional Effects

• Over time, high blood cholesterol may cause atherosclerosis. Pain, numbness and weakness in the extremities are common as the blood flow to your arms and legs decreases.