Khaberni -High cholesterol levels do not cause any symptoms, but they result in narrowing of the arteries around the body, which can lead to serious problems depending on where it occurs, such as a heart attack, blood clots, or stroke.
However, some people may be able to detect the condition before it's too late.
According to "Sure Life", experts from the British Heart Foundation have identified the only 3 "visible" signs of high cholesterol, which usually appear in those with a family history of hypercholesterolemia.
Xanthelasma
This includes tendon xanthomas. The accumulation of cholesterol in the body can cause swelling in certain areas. It can affect the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle.
Yellow bumps or nodules may also form in or around the tendon, which can be visible from the outside.
These skin lesions are known as "xanthomas," and are cholesterol-rich, thus tending to be yellow in color.
Hands and Knees Joints
Xanthomas may also appear on the joints of the hands and knees.
While the primary cause of these yellow lesions is high cholesterol, they might also indicate other conditions such as cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis, a rare genetic disorder.
Signs on the Eyes
Small yellow lesions similar to "xanthomas" may also appear around the inner corner of the eye. This condition is called "xanthelasma," and it is also one of the few visible signs of high cholesterol.
“Corneal arcus” may also affect the eye, causing a pale white ring to appear around the iris, the colored part of the eye. This sometimes occurs due to the natural aging process, but it is often a sign of high cholesterol in young people.
Screening and Lifestyle Changes
It is recommended to periodically check cholesterol levels after turning 40, and if there is a family history or some signs that raise suspicions, it is advisable to ask the doctor about the possibility of screening.
Some lifestyle changes can help lower cholesterol levels, such as increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, following a balanced diet, and steering clear of alcohol.
