Dr. Amir Khan, a general practitioner, recently appeared on ITV’s Lorraine to discuss how facial features can indicate hidden health issues, including high cholesterol. He emphasized that changes around the eyes can be particularly telling.
During his segment, Dr. Khan pointed out that if individuals notice new white or yellowish lumps near their eyelids—especially around the bony area near the eyebrows—it could signal elevated cholesterol levels. The NHS defines high cholesterol as having too much of a fatty substance in the blood, which can result from poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, and hereditary factors.
Dr. Khan stressed the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise to lower cholesterol levels. He warned that excessive cholesterol can block blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease and strokes.
In addition to discussing cholesterol, Dr. Khan addressed other facial symptoms that could indicate medical conditions. He noted that droopy eyelids—whether one or both—might be harmless but should be checked if they appear suddenly and persistently, as they could indicate issues with the brain or nerves.
He also mentioned that excess hair on the chin might suggest polycystic ovarian syndrome, a condition linked to hormonal imbalances. Furthermore, he described a characteristic red “butterfly-shaped” rash under the eyes as a key symptom of lupus, an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissue.
For those concerned about high cholesterol, the NHS recommends several steps:
Reduce intake of saturated fats while including unsaturated fats in your diet.
Check food labels to choose healthier options.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.
Quit smoking to lower cholesterol levels and reduce risks of heart attacks and strokes.
Limit alcohol consumption for better overall health.
Dr. Khan’s insights serve as a reminder of how our bodies can communicate underlying health issues, encouraging proactive measures for better health management.
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