People have been urged to keep a look out for two facial symptoms that could indicate high cholesterol. This occurs when you have too much of the fatty substance in your blood, impacting the smooth flow of blood through vessels. The NHS points out that you’re more likely to get high cholesterol if you’re over 50, a man, you’ve been through the menopause, or you’re of South Asian or sub-Saharan African origin. It can also run genetically in families. This is called familial hypercholesterolaemia.
Heart UK says: “Without treatment, FH can lead to heart disease at a very young age. But once it’s been diagnosed, it can be treated with medicines and a healthy lifestyle. FH means your cholesterol can become much higher than other people’s even if you have a very healthy lifestyle because it affects the way cholesterol is broken down in the body.”
High cholesterol can be caused as well by eating fatty food, not exercising enough, being overweight, smoking and drinking alcohol.
The British Heart Foundation (BHF) warns: “There are usually no symptoms of high cholesterol.
“But if left untreated, it can lead to heart attack and stroke. It’s often a hidden risk factor which means it can happen without us knowing until it’s too late.
“That is why it’s so important to get your cholesterol level checked.”
These are the two things people have been urged to keep an eye out for:
Corneal arcus – visible as a faint white ring circling the iris, which is the coloured part of the eye
Xanthelasmas – these are tiny, yellowish cholesterol bumps found near the inner corner of the eye
According to cardiologist Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, writing for the Mayo Clinic: “Eventually, the [Corneal arcus] arc may become a complete ring around the iris. The iris is the coloured portion of the eye.”
The Cleveland Clinic says: “Cholesterol deposits build up under your skin to form a xanthelasma.”
NHS guidelines suggest several measures to mitigate against high cholesterol:
- Consume less saturated fat
- Opt for a healthy, balanced diet
- Maintain regular physical activity
- Quit smoking
- Moderate alcohol consumption.
Medical experts add: “Too much cholesterol can block your blood vessels. It makes you more likely to have heart problems or a stroke.”
If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels you should speak to your GP.
