High cholesterol refers to levels of cholesterol in the blood that are considered too high. Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and found in certain foods, such as meat and dairy products. It plays an important role in many bodily functions, including the production of hormones and cell membranes. However, when there is too much cholesterol in the bloodstream, it can lead to health problems.
High levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol are particularly concerning because they can contribute to the formation of plaque in your arteries. This plaque build-up narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow, which increases the risk of heart disease or stroke. On the other hand, high levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol are considered good because it helps remove excess cholesterol from your bloodstream, reducing your risk for heart disease.
In summary, "high cholesterol" refers to an abnormal amount of cholesterol in the blood that can increase the risk of health problems such as heart disease or stroke if left untreated.