Heart disease can often be a silent killer, with around 40 per cent of adults believed to be unknowingly living with the condition.
Dangerously high cholesterol levels typically manifest no symptoms, however, Brits are being coaxed to keep an eye out for three warning signs. Whilst high cholesterol is initially symptomless, it occurs when there is an overabundance of a fatty substance called cholesterol in your blood.
Although it may not present immediate concerns, over time it can pose severe health risks. This is due to cholesterol build-up in the arteries leading to obstructions that hinder blood flow. Neglecting this can result in dire circumstances such as heart attacks and strokes, reports the Express.
The insidious nature of high cholesterol lies in its "hidden" risk factor as it does not conventionally express any symptoms. As the British Heart Foundation (BHF) outlines: "There are usually no symptoms of high cholesterol.
"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." However, on some occasions, one could spot signs in three different areas of their body indicating raised levels of cholesterol.
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Face
Two clear indicators of high cholesterol can emerge on your face. Xanthelasmas, small yellow accumulations of cholesterol, might congregate in the inner corner of your eyes. Additionally, they can also hint at other factors related to heart trouble, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and smoking.
While the bumps themselves are not dangerous, it's crucial to have them checked by a doctor. People with high cholesterol may also show signs of corneal arcus in their eyes. The British Heart Foundation (BHF) warns: "This is a pale white ring around the coloured part of your eye, your iris."
Hands
When it comes to your hands, you might notice xanthelasmas. This condition, known as tendon xanthomata, can cause lumps on your knuckles. These lumps tend to be smooth and match your skin colour. Tendon xanthomata can also affect the Achilles tendon.
Experts at Derm Net NZ describe: "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 the touch, and movable. The skin above is typically of normal colour."
These tendon xanthomas are often linked to familial hypercholesterolaemia, an inherited form of high cholesterol.
Legs
In terms of your legs, high cholesterol can lead to peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD is where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to leg muscles, as per NHS guidance.
It can manifest through symptoms in the legs:
- A painful ache in the legs
- Hair loss
- Numbness or weakness
- Ulcers (open sores) on your legs, which do not heal
- Changing skin colour on your legs, such as turning paler than usual or blue
- The muscles in your legs shrinking (wasting).
- Hair loss and ulcers could also appear on the feet.
"The symptoms of PAD often develop slowly, over time," says the NHS. "If your symptoms develop quickly, or get suddenly worse, it could be a sign of a serious problem requiring immediate treatment." Of these signs, the most common is a painful ache when walking that "usually" fades after a few minutes of rest, according to the NHS.
If you spot any of these symptoms, it's advised to book an appointment with your GP. Yet, the only definitive way to know if your cholesterol is too high is through testing.
To reduce cholesterol levels, the NHS suggests:
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- Eating less fatty food
- Eating a healthy balanced diet
- Exercising more
- Stopping smoking
- Cutting back on alcohol.
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