Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your body and certain foods. While it is essential for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest food, having high cholesterol levels can be detrimental to your health.

It can put you at risk for various diseases, including heart disease and stroke. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the signs that may indicate high cholesterol levels. By recognizing these signs, you can take necessary actions to manage your cholesterol levels and maintain good overall health.

1. Fat deposits around the eyes

One of the visible signs of high cholesterol is the presence of small, yellowish-white lumps around the eyes. These lumps are known as xanthelasmas and are fatty deposits that occur due to high levels of cholesterol in the blood.

While xanthelasmas may not directly cause health problems, they can indicate an underlying issue with cholesterol metabolism and should not be ignored.

2. Yellowish patches on the skin

In addition to xanthelasmas, high cholesterol can also manifest as yellowish patches on different parts of the body, including the elbows, knees, and hands.

These patches, known as xanthomas, are similar to xanthelasmas and are formed by the buildup of cholesterol-rich lipids. Xanthomas may vary in size and can sometimes be tender or itchy. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable if you notice such patches.

3. Chest pain and shortness of breath

High cholesterol levels can contribute to the narrowing and hardening of arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. When the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed, it can lead to chest pain, also known as angina.

Angina is often described as a discomfort, pressure, or squeezing sensation in the chest. Additionally, high cholesterol can restrict blood flow to the lungs, causing shortness of breath. If you experience these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention as they could indicate an increased risk of heart disease.

4. Frequent dizziness and headaches

High cholesterol can affect the blood vessels throughout your body, including those in your brain. When blood flow to the brain is compromised, it can lead to frequent dizziness, lightheadedness, and headaches.

These symptoms may be more noticeable when standing up quickly or during physical exertion. If you experience these symptoms frequently, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

5. Numbness or tingling in the limbs

Similar to its effect on the brain, high cholesterol can also impact the peripheral nerves in your limbs. This can cause sensations of numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling in your arms, legs, hands, or feet.

If you regularly experience these sensations without any apparent cause, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to determine if high cholesterol levels are contributing to these symptoms.

6. Recurring digestive issues

While digestive issues can have various causes, high cholesterol levels can contribute to certain problems within the digestive system. Excess cholesterol can accumulate in the liver, leading to the development of gallstones.

Gallstones can block the ducts that carry digestive enzymes from the gallbladder, causing recurrent episodes of abdominal pain, indigestion, and flatulence. If you frequently experience digestive issues, it is recommended to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider.

7. Fatigue and muscle weakness

Feeling excessively tired or experiencing muscle weakness might be signs of high cholesterol levels. When cholesterol accumulates in the arteries, it restricts blood flow to the muscles.

As a result, the muscles may not receive an adequate oxygen and nutrient supply, leading to fatigue and weakness. If you constantly feel tired or notice unexpected weakness in your muscles, consult your healthcare professional for an evaluation of your cholesterol levels.

8. Fatty deposits in tendons

A condition known as tendon xanthoma can develop in individuals with high cholesterol levels. Tendon xanthomas are fatty deposits that form on tendons, causing visible lumps or nodules.

These nodules are often painless but can limit joint mobility if they grow large enough. If you notice any unusual nodules on your tendons, particularly around the hands, knees, or ankles, it is advisable to have them examined by a healthcare professional.

9. Erectile dysfunction

In some cases, high cholesterol can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED) by impairing blood flow to the penis.

When the blood vessels that supply the penis become narrowed or hardened due to atherosclerosis, it can hinder the ability to achieve or maintain an erection. As ED can also be caused by other factors, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.

10. High blood pressure

Last but not least, high cholesterol levels often coexist with high blood pressure. These two conditions tend to occur together and compound the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.

While high blood pressure itself may not present many noticeable symptoms, it is considered a significant risk factor for various health issues. Regular blood pressure monitoring and cholesterol screening are thus crucial for maintaining good cardiovascular health.