Beware if you say 'my face and neck are burning': High cholesterol can lead to fatal consequences

High cholesterol poses a serious threat in Turkey's Çukurova region, where chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension are already prevalent, according to Doç. Dr. Gamze Akkuş, Vice Dean of ÇÜ Faculty of Medicine. She emphasized that cholesterol targets vary individually, but those with diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, or chronic kidney issues face heightened risks.

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Patients often come to us with complaints like 'My face is burning, my neck is burning,' or they may even present to emergency rooms with fatal conditions such as heart attack or stroke.

Dr. Akkuş noted that high cholesterol can progress undetected for extended periods. While familial cases might show earlier signs like fatty deposits under the skin or on eyelids, other forms can be entirely asymptomatic, with patients only reporting non-specific complaints such as facial or neck flushing. In severe instances, individuals may seek emergency care for life-threatening events like heart attacks or strokes.

Regular monitoring is essential, with annual check-ups recommended for high-risk individuals and those with chronic conditions. For those without risk factors, a screening every five years is advised. Early intervention and treatment are critical for individuals diagnosed with genetic hyperlipidemia and early-onset cardiovascular disease.

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If the person has a familial history, is high-risk, or has an accompanying chronic illness, cholesterol levels should be checked annually as part of routine screening; if there are no risks, it should be checked once every 5 years.

Treatment begins with lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes and exercise. If these measures fail to significantly lower cholesterol levels, medication becomes necessary, aligning with current medical guidelines. The Mediterranean and DASH diets are recommended for their heart-healthy benefits. Complementary therapies like omega-3 and omega-6 supplements can also be beneficial.

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First, we recommend a good nutrition program and lifestyle change for all patient groups. If we cannot detect a significant decrease in cholesterol levels despite this, we have to start drug treatment.