High cholesterol, medically known as hypercholesterolaemia, often develops silently without noticeable symptoms. However, it can cause dangerous narrowing of your arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots.
Fortunately, some visible warning signs may reveal high cholesterol before serious complications arise—particularly in individuals with a family history of the condition. The British Heart Foundation highlights three key visible symptoms associated with hypercholesterolaemia.
One prominent sign is tendon xanthomata, which occurs when cholesterol builds up in certain tendons, causing them to swell. These growths commonly affect the Achilles tendon located at the back of the ankle. The cholesterol deposits can appear as yellowish bumps or nodules, making them noticeable beneath the skin.
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Tendon xanthomata can also develop on the knuckles or knees. While usually a direct result of elevated cholesterol, these lesions may also indicate rare inherited disorders like Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis.
Another visible symptom is xanthelasma—small yellowish plaques that form around the inner corners of the eyes. These lesions are rich in cholesterol and can be an early warning sign of abnormal lipid levels.
Corneal arcus is another eye-related indicator that appears as a pale, white ring around the iris. While sometimes associated with normal aging, in younger individuals it often signals high cholesterol.
If you notice any of these signs or have a family history of cholesterol problems, it’s crucial to consult your GP for a cholesterol test. Diagnosing high cholesterol early is vital to prevent life-threatening cardiovascular events.
Familial hypercholesterolaemia is a genetic condition causing extremely high cholesterol regardless of lifestyle factors such as diet or physical activity. Early detection is key because, without treatment, it significantly raises the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Though there is no single cure for high cholesterol, the condition can be effectively managed through a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Important steps include increasing physical activity, reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and maintaining a balanced diet. If these measures are insufficient, doctors may prescribe medications like statins to lower cholesterol levels.
Experts from the British Heart Foundation emphasize the importance of regular cholesterol checks, especially because high cholesterol often remains unnoticed until severe complications occur.