High cholesterol is a common health issue that can lead to serious complications if left unchecked. Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and found in certain foods. While it’s essential for various bodily functions, including the production of hormones and cell membranes, excessive cholesterol can pose health risks. High cholesterol typically doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms until it leads to complications. However, there are certain signs and symptoms that may indicate elevated cholesterol levels. In this article, we will explore the five key signs of high cholesterol and how to manage and prevent it.
What Are The 5 Signs of High Cholesterol?
1. Xanthomas and Xanthelasma
One of the most visible signs of high cholesterol is the presence of xanthomas and xanthelasma. Xanthomas are fatty deposits that can form under the skin or in tendons, often appearing as yellowish or orange bumps. They can vary in size and are commonly found on the elbows, knees, hands, feet, and buttocks. Xanthelasma, on the other hand, are specific types of xanthomas that appear on the eyelids or around the eyes.
Causes and Risks
Xanthomas and xanthelasma are usually indicative of very high cholesterol levels or other lipid disorders. They can be a sign of familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that causes extremely high cholesterol levels from a young age.
These deposits occur when excess cholesterol accumulates in certain areas of the body.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A healthcare professional can diagnose xanthomas and xanthelasma through physical examination and blood tests to measure cholesterol levels. Treatment typically involves managing the underlying high cholesterol through lifestyle changes and medications. In some cases, the deposits can be removed surgically or with laser therapy, but addressing the root cause is essential to prevent recurrence.
See Also: What Should You Not Eat If You Have High Cholesterol
2. Angina (Chest Pain)
Another significant sign of high cholesterol is angina, or chest pain, which occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. This condition is often a result of atherosclerosis, where cholesterol plaques build up in the coronary arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow to the heart.
Symptoms of Angina
- A sensation of pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest
- Pain that may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Sweating
Types of Angina
There are two main types of angina: stable and unstable. Stable angina typically occurs during physical exertion or stress and is relieved by rest or medication. Unstable angina is more serious, occurring unpredictably and potentially leading to a heart attack.
Managing Angina
Managing angina involves addressing the underlying high cholesterol through dietary changes, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and medications such as statins, beta-blockers, and nitrates. Severe cases may require medical procedures like angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery.
3. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Peripheral artery disease is a condition where cholesterol plaques build up in the arteries supplying blood to the limbs, particularly the legs. This can cause reduced blood flow, leading to pain and other symptoms.
Symptoms of PAD
Intermittent claudication: Pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs or hips during physical activity, which subsides with rest
Numbness or weakness in the legs
Coldness in the lower leg or foot, especially when compared to the other side
Sores on the toes, feet, or legs that heal slowly
Change in the color of the legs
Hair loss or slower hair growth on the legs and feet
Diagnosis and Treatment
PAD is diagnosed through physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies such as Doppler ultrasound, ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, or angiography. Treatment focuses on lifestyle modifications, medications to lower cholesterol and improve blood flow, and in some cases, surgical interventions like angioplasty or bypass surgery.
see also: What Foods Cause Dyslipidemia
4. Stroke
High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for stroke, a condition where the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can result from atherosclerosis in the arteries supplying blood to the brain.
Symptoms of Stroke
Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding speech
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination
Sudden severe headache with no known cause
Types of Stroke
There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic stroke, the more common type, occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.
Prevention and Treatment
Preventing stroke involves managing high cholesterol, controlling blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking. Treatment for stroke may include medications to dissolve clots, surgical interventions, and rehabilitation to regain lost functions.
5. Arcus Senilis
Arcus senilis is a gray or white arc visible around the cornea of the eye, often seen in older adults. While it can be a normal part of aging, in younger individuals, it may indicate high cholesterol levels.
Characteristics of Arcus Senilis
A gray, white, or blue ring or arc around the cornea
Typically does not affect vision
More common in older adults but concerning if seen in individuals under 45
Diagnosis and Implications
A healthcare provider can diagnose arcus senilis through an eye examination. In younger individuals, its presence warrants a thorough evaluation of cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.
Managing High Cholesterol
Managing high cholesterol involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Key strategies include:
Diet: Adopting a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reducing intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
Medications: When lifestyle changes are insufficient, medications like statins, bile acid sequestrants, or cholesterol absorption inhibitors may be prescribed.
Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
High cholesterol is often a silent condition, but certain signs and symptoms can indicate its presence and potential complications. Recognizing the signs of xanthomas and xanthelasma, angina, peripheral artery disease, stroke, and arcus senilis can prompt timely medical evaluation and intervention. Managing high cholesterol through lifestyle changes and medications is crucial in reducing the risk of serious health issues like heart disease and stroke. Regular check-ups and proactive measures can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.