If you mean the headline “Cholesterol: 5 symptoms that warn you it’s too high”, it’s important to know that high cholesterol usually does not cause noticeable symptoms. Many people have high cholesterol for years without feeling anything, which is why it is often called a “silent” risk factor.
However, very high cholesterol levels or cholesterol-related disease may sometimes be associated with warning signs such as:
- Chest pain or pressure
Cholesterol buildup in arteries can contribute to coronary artery disease, which may cause chest discomfort, especially during activity. - Pain or weakness in the legs when walking
Blocked arteries in the legs (peripheral artery disease) can cause cramping or pain with exercise. - Yellowish skin deposits (xanthomas)
Some people with very high cholesterol—especially inherited forms—may develop yellow bumps around tendons, elbows, knees, or near the eyes. - A grayish-white ring around the cornea (corneal arcus)
In younger people, this may sometimes be linked with high cholesterol levels. - Signs of a cardiovascular event
Symptoms such as sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, facial drooping, weakness on one side of the body, or trouble speaking can indicate a heart attack or stroke and need urgent medical attention.
The reliable way to know your cholesterol level is through a blood test (lipid panel) measuring LDL (“bad” cholesterol), HDL (“good” cholesterol), triglycerides, and total cholesterol.
If you’d like, I can also provide a list of foods that can help lower LDL cholesterol naturally.
