Among the many problems that can shorten our lifespan and reduce our quality of life, high cholesterol and hyperlipidemia are serious health concerns. Cholesterol, a waxy substance that is naturally produced in our bodies, can wreak havoc when in excess. In modern times, bad dietary choices combined with a sedentary lifestyle and low activity can lead to an excess of bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol and triglycerides), which cause fat deposits in the blood vessels. , which can make it difficult for enough blood to flow through the arteries. This can lead to symptoms such as heart attack and stroke.
By paying attention to certain signs in your body, you can be alerted well in advance, before you actually become susceptible to high cholesterol problems and ultimately heart disease. In a post-corona world where lifestyles have become more sedentary and heart attack cases are rising sharply, being forewarned about serious health problems could encourage people to take precautions. there is.
High cholesterol usually has no symptoms, but in some cases it may appear on the face or eyes. A grayish-white ring on the cornea, yellowish spots on the skin, bumps around the eyes may indicate the need to modify your lifestyle and make efforts to reduce cholesterol.
Signs and symptoms of high cholesterol in the face and eyes
Here are some of the signs and symptoms of high cholesterol levels as explained by Dr. Neeti Sharma, Senior Consultant, Nutrition and Dietetics, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram.
1. Yellow spots on the eyelids
Yellowish patches that appear on the skin, especially around the eyelids, are known as xanthomas. These are made of cholesterol deposits and often indicate high blood cholesterol levels. Although most of them are benign, their presence may indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. If you have xanthomas, you should definitely see a doctor. They may be able to give you advice on managing your cholesterol and assessing your overall heart health.
2. Changes around the corneal limbus: Senile arc, a ring that develops around the limbus of the cornea and is white or gray in color. This is caused by cholesterol deposits and can be a sign of increased cholesterol levels, especially if he is under 45 years old.
3. Ring surrounding the cornea: Corneal arcs are usually observed in people under 40 years of age. This is a white or gray ring surrounding the cornea, similar to a senile arc. It can also be a sign of high cholesterol levels.
4. Skin pigmentation: Hyperlipidemia is a disease in which the blood contains excess lipids, especially cholesterol, and is caused by high cholesterol. This can lead to xanthoderma, a yellowish skin pigmentation. It usually appears most commonly on the face and around the eyes. This discoloration is caused by the buildup of high cholesterol deposits within the layers of the skin. Even if it is not always present, it may be a sign of elevated cholesterol levels and requires additional testing.
5. Yellowish acne: Benign tumors known as xanthomas occur when cholesterol accumulates in certain cells beneath the skin's surface. Depending on their size and shape, they can appear as small yellowish pimples or larger raised spots. When it appears on the face, it often appears on the cheeks, eyelids, and around the eyes. Although it is usually painless, its presence may be a sign of an underlying disease, such as abnormal lipid metabolism or elevated cholesterol.
If xanthomas occur on the face, it is essential to see a health care provider for additional evaluation and lipid profile management.