المصدر 7 - High cholesterol is often called a silent killer — not because it causes immediate symptoms, but because it quietly damages the body over time. Many people live for years without knowing their cholesterol is too high, increasing their risk of heart disease, stroke, and artery blockages.

But while high cholesterol doesn’t always show obvious signs, the body does send subtle warnings that something isn’t right. Understanding these clues can help you take action early and protect your heart before serious complications develop.

Here are five important warning signs that may indicate high cholesterol levels.

1. Chest Pain or Discomfort — A Sign of Restricted Blood Flow

One of the most serious signs of high cholesterol is chest pain. Cholesterol buildup narrows the arteries, making it harder for oxygen-rich blood to reach the heart.

What the pain feels like:

Tightness

Pressure

Squeezing sensation

Burning or heaviness

Pain radiating to the neck, jaw, or arm

Why this happens:

High cholesterol leads to plaque buildup in the arteries.

When blood flow is restricted:

The heart doesn’t get enough oxygen

This causes discomfort or pain (angina)

It increases the risk of a heart attack

When to seek help:

If chest pain appears during physical activity or stress and improves with rest, it may be a sign of angina — a warning that your arteries are narrowing.

2. Fatty Deposits Around the Eyes (Xanthelasma)

Xanthelasma are small, yellowish cholesterol deposits that appear on or around the eyelids.

While they are painless, they are a noticeable sign of high cholesterol.

How they look:

Soft, yellow bumps

Usually near the inner corners of the eyes

May appear on both upper and lower eyelids

Why they appear:

Excess cholesterol circulates in the blood and can accumulate under the skin.

Important note:

Not everyone with xanthelasma has high cholesterol — but it’s common enough that doctors often recommend a blood test when these bumps appear.

Why this matters:

Xanthelasma may indicate:

High LDL cholesterol

High triglycerides

Increased risk of heart problems

3. Leg Pain or Numbness — Poor Circulation in the Lower Body

High cholesterol can also affect circulation in the legs.

When plaque buildup narrows the arteries supplying the legs, a condition called peripheral artery disease (PAD) can develop.

Symptoms include:

Leg pain when walking

Cramping in calves or thighs

Cold feet

Numbness or tingling

Slow healing wounds on the legs

Why this happens:

Restricted blood flow prevents muscles from receiving enough oxygen — especially during activity.

When to be concerned:

If leg pain improves with rest but returns when walking, it may be due to poor circulation caused by high cholesterol.

4. High Blood Pressure — A Common Side Effect of Artery Narrowing

Many people don’t realize that high cholesterol and high blood pressure are closely linked.

Why:

Cholesterol buildup narrows the arteries

Narrow arteries create resistance

The heart must pump harder to push blood through

This results in elevated blood pressure, which can be both a symptom and a consequence of high cholesterol.

Warning signs of high blood pressure:

Headaches

Dizziness

Fatigue

Vision problems

Shortness of breath

Important:

High blood pressure rarely shows clear symptoms — so regular monitoring is essential.

5. Numbness, Tingling, or Weakness — A Warning Sign of Reduced Blood Flow

When cholesterol blocks arteries, blood flow decreases — not just to the heart, but also to the brain and limbs.

Symptoms include:

Tingling in hands or feet

Numbness in the limbs

Weakness on one side of the body

Feeling cold in extremities

Why this matters:

Reduced blood flow means:

Nerves don’t receive enough oxygen

Muscles weaken

The risk of stroke increases

When to seek immediate help:

Sudden numbness or weakness — especially on one side — may indicate a stroke and requires emergency care.

???? Bonus: Hidden Signs of High Cholesterol

Other subtle warnings include:

Slow wound healing

Fatigue or constant tiredness

Shortness of breath

Digestive discomfort after eating fatty meals

Erectile dysfunction (reduced blood flow)

These may not always be caused by high cholesterol, but they often appear alongside artery problems.

???? What to Do If You Suspect High Cholesterol

If you notice any of these symptoms:

Schedule a blood test

Reduce saturated fats and trans fats

Increase fiber-rich foods

Exercise regularly

Consider medication if recommended by a doctor

Stop smoking

Maintain a healthy weight

Early detection can prevent heart attacks, strokes, and life-threatening artery blockages.