As you know from some of our previous ACLS Academy blogs, cholesterol levels are influenced by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. What you may not know is there is a correlation between some medical conditions and cholesterol levels in the body.
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a type of lipid (fat) present in our bodies and is essential for various physiological functions. The body does not need cholesterol from food and can naturally manufacture it. The liver naturally produces cholesterol, a fatty substance that helps the body make hormones and digest fatty foods. However, there is also cholesterol in animal-based foods, such as the bacon, cheese, butter, and eggs we all love and consume, and may impact our cholesterol numbers.
Cholesterol is transported in the blood in the form of lipoproteins, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because high levels of it can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This buildup can narrow and eventually block blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. HDL cholesterol is often called "good" cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of plaque formation.
Medical Conditions that May Impact Cholesterol Numbers
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid, hypothyroidism, can lead to higher levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and total cholesterol. Your body needs thyroid hormones to make cholesterol and to get rid of the cholesterol it doesn't need. When thyroid hormone levels are low, your body doesn't break down and remove LDL cholesterol as efficiently as usual. LDL cholesterol can then build up in your blood.
Diabetes: People with diabetes often have lower levels of HDL (good) cholesterol and higher levels of triglycerides, which can contribute to an unfavorable cholesterol profile. If you have diabetes, you will usually have lower HDL cholesterol levels and higher LDL/non-HDL (bad) cholesterol levels. This is commonly called 'dyslipidemia' and means your arteries are more likely to become narrow or blocked.
Gum disease: Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is when the gums become swollen, sore, or infected. It usually starts as gingivitis, when your gums might bleed a bit when you brush or floss. If left untreated, it can develop into a more severe form where the tissues and bones that support the teeth can become damaged. If this happens, it can lead to loose teeth or even tooth loss. Recently published research discovered that those with high total cholesterol were slightly more likely to have gum disease. While the study did find a link between high cholesterol and gum disease, it’s essential to understand that this doesn’t mean one causes the other. The relationship is there, but more research is needed to understand the exact nature of this connection. Nevertheless, this study reminds us of the intricate ties between oral health and well-being.
Lupus: Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means that your immune system, the body system that usually fights infections, attacks healthy tissue instead. People with lupus are at an increased risk for high cholesterol and the complications of high cholesterol. The chronic inflammation caused by lupus slows your metabolism and damages your blood vessels. Combined, these factors can cause cholesterol and plaque buildup on artery walls.
Polycystic ovary syndrome: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition during a woman’s reproductive years in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens. These male sex hormones are usually present in women in small amounts. Many women with PCOS are insulin resistant, meaning that insulin can build up in the body, making it difficult to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Because excess insulin can cause weight gain, women with PCOS also tend to be overweight or obese, particularly in the abdomen area. This belly fat, called visceral fat, can lead to higher triglycerides and lower HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
Cushing's syndrome: Cushing syndrome happens when the body has too much of the hormone cortisol for a long time. Too much cortisol can cause some of the main symptoms of Cushing syndrome, a fatty hump between the shoulders, a rounded face, and pink or purple stretch marks on the skin. Cushing syndrome also can cause high blood pressure or bone loss. Sometimes, it can cause type 2 diabetes. Excessive production of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, in conditions like Cushing's syndrome, can lead to increased levels of cholesterol, particularly LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, red, and scaly patches. While psoriasis primarily affects the skin, it has been associated with various systemic effects and comorbidities, including an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Studies have suggested a potential link between psoriasis and alterations in lipid profiles, including a reduction in HDL (good) cholesterol levels. The exact mechanisms behind the association between psoriasis and changes in lipid levels are not fully understood, but inflammation is believed to play a role. Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition, and chronic inflammation has been implicated in the development of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, some medications used to treat psoriasis, such as certain systemic immunosuppressive drugs or corticosteroids, may also impact lipid profiles. For example, some systemic treatments for psoriasis have been associated with changes in lipid levels, including reductions in HDL (good) cholesterol.
Pregnancy: Cholesterol levels naturally increase during pregnancy. Cholesterol is needed for the growth and development of the baby, and to make the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which play an important role during pregnancy. However, high maternal cholesterol levels during pregnancy are linked with increased risks of preterm delivery and gestational diabetes.
It's important to note that while these medical conditions can influence cholesterol levels, they may vary from person to person. Of course, lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and smoking also play a significant role in cholesterol levels. Even your age and gender may impact cholesterol levels. As you get older, your body can't remove cholesterol from your blood as well as it once could. That's one reason your risk for heart disease rises as you age. If you have concerns about your cholesterol levels or overall cardiovascular health, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and appropriate management.