High cholesterol is often called a “silent killer,” and for good reason—it frequently shows few symptoms until serious health issues arise. Frederick Manduca, co-founder of medical test kit provider Newfoundland Diagnostics, warns people not to overlook key physical signs that may indicate elevated cholesterol levels.
As we age, monitoring cholesterol becomes increasingly crucial. Manduca advises regular checkups with a GP and the use of home testing kits to keep cholesterol in check. “It’s very hard to know whether you have high cholesterol, so staying vigilant is key,” he explains. Yet, some visible signs can serve as early warnings.
One such sign is the appearance of swellings around tendons, known medically as tendon xanthomata. These are small, firm, yellowish cholesterol deposits that can develop on the knuckles, knees, and Achilles tendons. Unlike harmless xanthelasma, tendon xanthomata can be painful and tender when pressure is applied or when you move. “If you experience discomfort in these areas, it’s important to get them evaluated—not only for relief but for your cardiovascular health,” Manduca advises.
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Another notable indicator is a corneal arcus—a greyish ring that forms around the iris of your eye. While it doesn’t impact vision or the eye’s appearance from afar, its presence can be a warning sign of high cholesterol. “If you notice a corneal arcus in one or both eyes, it may indicate underlying heart disease, making medical evaluation essential,” says Manduca.
Additionally, watch out for yellowish deposits called xanthelasma, commonly found on or around the eyelids. These harmless cholesterol buildups themselves don’t cause problems but are a red flag for potentially elevated cholesterol levels that require attention.
Men should also be mindful of erectile dysfunction, which can sometimes signal high cholesterol. According to Manduca, narrowed arteries in the penis caused by cholesterol buildup reduce blood flow, making it harder to achieve or maintain an erection. “Recognizing this symptom could lead to better cholesterol management and improved quality of life,” he notes.
While cholesterol-related symptoms can appear as early as age 20, the risk and likelihood of these signs increase significantly after 40. To proactively safeguard your health, regular monitoring using accessible at-home cholesterol test kits from providers like Newfoundland Diagnostics is highly recommended.