Beware of High Cholesterol Symptoms in the Shoulder Area, Don't Ignore It!

Kapanlagi.com - High cholesterol is often associated with heart or vascular diseases. However, not many people know that this condition can also cause pain in areas of the body that are rarely suspected, such as the shoulder. This soreness or pain is often considered trivial, yet it can be a serious sign that needs to be heeded.

The pain in the shoulder due to high cholesterol is caused by the narrowing of blood vessels that obstructs blood and oxygen flow to the surrounding muscles. This leads to muscle stiffness and fatigue, even when not engaging in heavy activities. The buildup of cholesterol plaques in the blood vessels hinders blood and oxygen flow to the shoulder and neck area, resulting in stiffness and soreness.

These symptoms can appear gradually and are often only felt at night. Therefore, it is important for anyone experiencing discomfort in the shoulder to understand the signs of high cholesterol early on. Medical examination remains a key step to ensure diagnosis.

1. 1. Recurrent Pain or Soreness in the Shoulder

One of the most common signs of high cholesterol affecting the shoulder is pain that appears without a clear cause. This pain can feel like soreness, stiffness, or a pulled muscle that does not subside with rest. Usually, this pain radiates from the back of the neck to the shoulder, feeling more intense at night or when the body is relaxed.

The main cause of these symptoms is restricted blood flow due to cholesterol plaques in the blood vessels. Poor blood circulation to the muscles prevents that area from receiving enough oxygen. As a result, feelings of fatigue and pain occur even without heavy activity.

This symptom can be unilateral, for example, only in the left or right shoulder, and often does not improve even after being massaged or compressed. If the soreness persists for several days, it is advisable to have your blood cholesterol levels checked as soon as possible.

2. 2. Tingling and Numbness in the Neck to Arm Area

Another symptom to be cautious of is tingling or numbness, especially if it occurs alongside pain in the shoulder. This can indicate that blood flow to that area is severely disrupted. In this condition, the nervous system does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to sensations like numbness or tingling.

Cholesterol pain can radiate to the shoulder, back, and even the jaw. This happens because the nerves connected to those parts are also affected by circulation disturbances. Persistent tingling without a clear cause can be an early sign of high cholesterol that is often unnoticed.

If tingling occurs especially at night, it should be suspected as a manifestation of vascular disorders. To determine the cause, routine blood tests can be an initial step in detecting excess cholesterol in the body.

3. 3. Muscles Get Tired and Tense Quickly Even Without Heavy Activity

If the shoulders feel tired quickly, tense, or easily cramp even when only doing light activities, it could be a symptom of high cholesterol. Muscles that do not receive enough oxygen from the blood tend to fatigue more quickly. This can be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and persistent tension.

Lack of oxygen due to poor blood flow can make the shoulder muscles feel tired or tense, even without heavy activity. This condition is more frequently experienced when the body remains in a stationary position for a long time, such as when sleeping or sitting for too long.

This unusual fatigue is different from fatigue caused by exercise or heavy work. It can occur suddenly and persist for several days. If accompanied by other symptoms such as mild swelling or cramps, it should be suspected as a result of high cholesterol levels.

4. 4. Swelling or Heat Sensation Around the Neck and Shoulders

In addition to pain and stiffness, high cholesterol can also trigger mild swelling in the neck and shoulder areas. This swelling usually occurs due to local inflammation or blockage of blood vessels in that area. Although it is not always significant, the swelling can cause dull pain and a warm sensation.

Complaints such as left shoulder pain that occurs every night can also signal vascular problems, including cholesterol issues. While not all swelling is caused by cholesterol, this combination of symptoms can be a strong indicator. In the forum, the doctor also recommended a direct examination because shoulder pain can also be related to heart or muscle problems.

These symptoms are more easily felt in individuals with a history of unhealthy lifestyle, such as frequently consuming fatty foods, lack of movement, or having high blood pressure. If left untreated, inflammation and blockage can lead to serious complications.

5. Diagnosis and Treatment of High Cholesterol

To determine whether the symptoms you are experiencing are related to high cholesterol, an accurate diagnosis is essential. Some common methods used to diagnose high cholesterol include:

• Blood Test: A lipid blood test is the most accurate way to measure your cholesterol levels.
• Medical History: The doctor will ask about your health history and your family's health history as well as your lifestyle.
• Physical Examination: The doctor may perform a physical examination to look for signs of high cholesterol.
• Additional Tests: If necessary, the doctor may recommend additional tests such as an EKG to assess heart health.

6. How to Manage High Cholesterol

If you are experiencing symptoms of high cholesterol, there are several steps you can take to manage it:

• Change Your Diet: Consume foods low in saturated fat and high in fiber. Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
• Avoid Stress: Stress can affect overall health, including cholesterol levels.
• Consult with a Doctor: Don’t hesitate to consult with a doctor for appropriate treatment.

7. Questions About High Cholesterol

1. What causes high cholesterol?

High cholesterol can be caused by an unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and genetic factors.

2. Will everyone with high cholesterol experience symptoms?

Not everyone experiences symptoms. High cholesterol often does not show clear signs.

3. How can high cholesterol be lowered?

Lowering cholesterol can be done by changing dietary habits, exercising regularly, and avoiding stress.

4. Can high cholesterol be treated?

Yes, high cholesterol can be treated with lifestyle changes and, if necessary, with medications prescribed by a doctor.

(kpl/frr)