Can you have high cholesterol with no plaque build up?

It is possible to have high levels of cholesterol in your blood without necessarily having plaque build-up in your arteries. While elevated cholesterol levels can signify an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, the presence of plaque is a more serious manifestation. Plaque is formed when excess cholesterol, along with other substances like fatty deposits, calcium and inflammatory cells, accumulates on the inner walls of your arteries. These deposits can cause narrowing of the arteries, restrict blood flow, and eventually lead to complications such as heart attacks or strokes. Having high cholesterol without plaque simply indicates that you have elevated cholesterol levels in your blood, which can still pose a health risk. It is important to manage cholesterol levels through healthy dietary choices, regular exercise, and medication if necessary, to reduce the chances of developing plaque build-up and associated health issues.