High cholesterol is a silent killer that can lead to severe health issues if left unchecked. When cholesterol levels become too high, fatty deposits known as plaque build-up in your arteries. This plaque narrows arteries and makes it more difficult for blood to flow properly. If a piece of plaque suddenly breaks off, it can cause a blood clot that triggers a heart attack or stroke.
Because high cholesterol does not produce obvious physical symptoms, many people are unaware they have a problem. That’s why it’s crucial to understand and recognize the various high cholesterol symptoms that may arise. Being aware of your cholesterol levels and any symptoms can save your life.
What Are Healthy Cholesterol Levels?
Before examining high cholesterol symptoms, it helps to understand what cholesterol levels are considered healthy. Total cholesterol levels of less than 200 mg/dL are considered desirable. LDL “bad” cholesterol should be less than 100 mg/dL, while HDL “good” cholesterol should be 60 mg/dL or higher.
Triglyceride levels below 150 mg/dL are recommended. If your cholesterol levels exceed these amounts, lifestyle changes and medication may be necessary to avoid complications.
Warning Signs and High Cholesterol Symptoms
Here are some of the most common high cholesterol symptoms to look out for:
1. Numbness and Tingling Sensations
Plaque buildup in blood vessels can restrict circulation, depriving areas like the legs and feet of oxygen. This can cause numb, tingly sensations and discomfort. You may feel prickling pins and needles in the legs or arms as well.
2. Skin Discoloration
Skin discoloration can signal circulation issues too. Bluish-purple net-like patterns on the skin, especially on the legs, may indicate cholesterol deposits in blood vessels. The skin may also appear paler.
3. Fatty Skin Deposits
Yellowish fatty deposits called xanthelasma sometimes appear around the eyelids as cholesterol markers. While not dangerous on their own, they can be a warning of plaque accumulation in arteries.
Chronic Inflammation
Studies link the inflammatory skin condition psoriasis to high cholesterol. One theory is that psoriasis causes HDL “good” cholesterol impairment. If you develop psoriasis, get your cholesterol checked.
4. Chest Pain
Chest pain or discomfort, especially during physical activity, can be an ominous high cholesterol symptom. Plaque buildup in the arteries surrounding the heart limits oxygen-rich blood flow and strains the heart.
5. Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction in men can also signal circulation issues from plaque accumulation. Restricted blood flow is often the culprit.
6. Fatigue and Weakness
Fatigue and feeling abnormally weak or tired can indicate heart problems linked to high cholesterol as well. Plaque buildup limits blood flow, reducing oxygen to muscles and tissues.
7. Vision Issues
Vision problems like blurred or double vision arise when plaque interferes with blood flow to the eyes. Sudden loss of vision or vision loss in one eye requires emergency care.
8. Dizziness
Dizziness, lightheadedness, and vertigo are other vascular symptoms of high cholesterol. Plaque in neck arteries limits blood to the brain, causing these balance issues.
High Cholesterol Diagnosis and Treatment
If you experience any of these high cholesterol symptoms, see your doctor right away. A simple blood test can determine if cholesterol is elevated. Depending on your test results and risk factors, your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications like statins.
Lifestyle changes are also key – following a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and losing excess weight. The earlier you catch and treat high cholesterol, the better the outcome. Ignoring symptoms and letting cholesterol go unchecked can prove fatal.
Monitor cholesterol levels and understand the subtle symptoms so you can take action before a medical emergency strikes. Recognizing the warning signs of high cholesterol can save your life.