While high cholesterol levels are linked to an increased risk of heart disease, low cholesterol is also harmful. Unfortunately, the common belief is that low cholesterol levels are good for the body. Consequently, due to a lack of awareness, many fail to recognize the problem, eventually suffering from health complications. The truth is that cholesterol should be neither high nor low. Here, we discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for lower cholesterol.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a wax-like compound in the body that helps maintain cell structure, digestion, and hormone production. When present in the right amounts, it aids in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Cholesterol can be divided into two types: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL, also known as bad cholesterol, should not exceed 100mg/dL, while HDL, also known as good cholesterol, should be 40mg/dL or higher for adults aged 20 or older. The healthy range for total cholesterol is 125 to 200mg/dL.
What causes low cholesterol?
The main causes that lead to lower cholesterol levels in the body include:
- Malnutrition
- Genetic conditions
- Thyroid and liver issues
- Anemia
- Malabsorption, or the body’s inability to absorb nutrients, including fat
What are the signs of low cholesterol?
The symptoms are not always conspicuous, which is why doctors and experts recommend patients periodically check their cholesterol levels. Lower cholesterol significantly affects mental health as well as physical health. Some common symptoms are:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Change in eating and sleeping patterns
- Agitation, confusion, and a lack of concentration
- Cognitive impairment (in children)
- Hormonal imbalances
Lower cholesterol does not lead to identifiable symptoms, and these signs could be associated with another underlying condition in some cases. Thus, people should check their cholesterol levels regularly, especially if the problem runs in the family. Not doing so can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and, in some cases, even cancer.
How is low cholesterol diagnosed?
The simplest way to properly diagnose cholesterol changes is through a fairly common type of blood test called a lipid profile. While people who have diabetes or a history of lower cholesterol should get their levels checked frequently, healthy adults may benefit from undergoing the test every four to five years. Children may get tested once between the ages of nine and 11. If the blood test reveals an LDL below 50mg/dL or a total cholesterol level below 120mg/dL, it indicates lower cholesterol. Along with a blood test, doctors may recommend additional examinations for detecting a genetic condition or an infection to discover the underlying cause of the issue.
Detecting lower cholesterol at the right time can help doctors plan treatment immediately. Timely detection of lower cholesterol, specifically LDL cholesterol, is crucial as it has been associated with a risk of depression, hemorrhagic stroke, and cancer. Further, pregnant women are at risk of preterm birth.
What are the treatment options?
Several factors, such as an underlying physical condition or a lack of nutrients in the food, can cause lower cholesterol. Irrespective of the cause, one should consult a doctor for the right treatment. Many people believe that eating cholesterol-rich foods can solve the problem, but it is not true. The correct treatment option can be decided only after the doctor looks at the results of the blood tests. Sometimes, the expert may suggest a mental health evaluation to determine the treatment. It is especially the case when they notice evident and intense symptoms of anxiety, depression, or confusion. After the tests, the doctor suggests treatment options, including food and lifestyle changes.
Based on the level of cholesterol and the causes behind it, doctors prescribe treatments that need to be followed with lifestyle changes. If low cholesterol affects one’s mental health, or if an underlying mental health condition causes lower cholesterol, doctors may prescribe special treatments after due evaluation by psychiatrists.
There is no uniform treatment for lower cholesterol. Low HDL improves after making specific lifestyle changes, such as becoming physically active. If low LDL levels result from genetic conditions, doctors recommend options like vitamins and other treatments besides lifestyle changes.
One should communicate their worries and concerns with the doctor when dealing with lower cholesterol. Individuals can consult an expert to learn about the right treatment options and side effects and clarify their doubts about the symptoms. Moreover, patients should not experiment with treatments themselves as it can lead to adverse consequences. A healthcare expert can examine the patient and recommend the most suitable remedy.