Changes in your hands could be a sign of common silent deadly condition

12 April 2024 , 12:34

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The sign will often form on a sufferer's knuckle (Image: Getty Images)

A dangerous silent killer condition can sometimes present "visible signs" on a sufferer's hands.

While the only way of being sure you have high cholesterol is to get a test at the doctors, there is another sign that you should be on the look out for. High cholesterol leads to a narrowing of the arteries, which in turn leads to heart attacks, blood clots and even stroke.

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) has revealed the one side effect of high cholesterol that can appear on the hands. A spokesperson explained: “There are usually no symptoms of high cholesterol. But if left untreated, it can lead to heart attack and stroke. It's often a hidden risk factor which means it can happen without us knowing until it's too late. That is why it's so important to get your cholesterol level checked.”

If you have familial hypercholesterolaemia, you “may have visible signs” of high cholesterol. These include a condition called tendon xanthomata, which can cause lumps to form on your knuckles, reports The Express.

A xanthoma is a skin lesion caused by the accumulation of fat under the skin. They might appear smooth and a normal skin colour. In the case of tendon xanthomata it can also appear on the Achilles tendon.

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Skin specialists at Derm Net explain: “Tendon xanthomas (tendinous xanthoma) are slowly enlarging subcutaneous nodules usually found attached to the Achilles tendon or tendons over the knuckles. They are smooth, firm to palpation, and mobile. The overlying skin colour is normal.

“Tendon xanthomas are most commonly associated with familial hypercholesterolaemia, but can also be seen in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis and sitosterolaemia.”

Another visible sign of high cholesterol that can appear on the skin is xanthelasmas around the eyes. More specifically these will be small, yellow lumps of cholesterol near the inner corner of your eye.

If you notice you have xanthelasmas you should speak to your GP. They might conduct a test to check your cholesterol levels.

Your doctor may also explain lifestyle changes you can make to lower your cholesterol including:

• Cutting back on saturated fats
• Exercising more
• Quitting smoking
• Cutting back on alcohol.

Ryan Fahey