As diseases involving the blood vessels are so common in recent times they have been studied extensively. If this is left untreated it will cause heart disease to develop about 20 years earlier than the general population. Life long therapy is needed from the doctor, as people with this condition cannot control the high cholesterol level by diet alone. In addition to the hereditary factors a number of other diseases could lead to hypercholesterolaemia. Hypothyroidism is a common cause of increased cholesterol because the hormones secreted by the thyroid effects the rate of clearing of the fats by blood.
Liver disease can raise the levels of fats.
Progesterone, a pregnancy hormone raises cholesterol. High blood cholesterol can cause fatty streaks to build up inside blood vessels. Over time, these fatty streaks may harden and block or reduce blood flow through the vessels. Diet and lifestyle changes are important factors to address in treating many cholesterol problems. Changing the diet is the first step towards good cholesterol management.