Six high cholesterol symptoms in the skin and how to manage these

High cholesterol can even be life-threatening, but there are few symptoms that can warn you about this condition. You may be looking at your own diet and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, but there is no way to see if this is preventing your cholesterol levels from shooting. This is why blood tests are usually suggested when your doctor wants to check your level. However, there may be some telling signs that can give you a clue. Sometimes high skin cholesterol symptoms can pop up. They may be visible around your eyes or ears. Know what to do if you notice these signs on your skin.

What is cholesterol?

“It’s a fat-like substance, waxy and found in every cell in the body,” says psychologist Dr. Anesh Jain. It is essential for physical functions, including:

• Hormonal production: Cholesterol is an important component in the production of hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol.
• Cell membrane structure: Maintains fluidity of the cell membrane and allows it to function properly.
• Vitamin D Synthesis: The body uses waxy substances to produce vitamin D when its skin is exposed to sunlight.
• Bile acid formation: This substance is necessary for the production of bile acids, which helps digest intestinal fat.

High levels of LDL or low density lipoproteins, also known as “bad” cholesterol, can lead to arterial plaque accumulation, limiting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, HDL or high density lipoprotein, also known as “good” cholesterol, helps to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and bring it to the liver for removal. “Making a balance between LDL and HDL is important for your overall health, as this can reduce the risk of arterial occlusion,” experts say. If your total cholesterol is above 200 milligrams (mg/dl) per deciliter, it means you need to work on lowering the levels.

What are the symptoms of high cholesterol in the skin?

High cholesterol can cause significant changes in the skin due to the collection of fat deposits or cholesterol crystals within blood vessels, explains Dr. Jain. Some of the major skin cholesterol symptoms include:

1. Xantoma

Yellowish, fatty masses or nodules appear below the skin. They are commonly found around the eyes, elbows, knees, joints and butt areas. “Kilantomas occur when high levels of cholesterol circulate in the bloodstream and accumulate in the skin. They are often very high due to genetic conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia. It’s more common in people with LDL cholesterol levels,” says the expert.

2. Xanthelasmas

You may notice soft yellowish plaque around the eyelids, especially on the inner corners. These deposits are usually symmetrical and grow gradually over time. “Xanthelasmas is an indicator of skin lipid (fat) accumulation and can be a sign of high cholesterol and increased risk of heart disease,” experts say.

3. Liches Prance

It is a condition that causes itching and sometimes leads to pain. It may be connected to high cholesterol. In a 2020 study published in the Medical Report of Sisli Etfal Hospital, participants in the Lichy Planus had higher levels of total and LDL cholesterol.

4. arcus

“Grey, white, or bluish rings appear around the eyes, but do not affect vision,” experts say. It is caused by cholesterol deposits in the cornea. “It is common in older people (ages over 60), but its presence in younger people may indicate high cholesterol levels,” experts say.

5. psoriasis

It is an autoimmune condition that causes skin inflammation. If you have psoriasis, you may end up with discolored skin covered in scales. A 2014 study published in Arthritis and Rheumatology found that participants with high cholesterol were at a higher risk of developing psoriasis, particularly those who had never taken cholesterol-lowering medications.

6. Frank’s signature

This is a diagonal crease of the earlobe that extends from the ear opening to the bottom edge. “The exact reason for Frank’s signs is not clear, but it may be related to reduced circulation due to accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries,” says Dr. Jain.

These cholesterol symptoms in the skin are not only cosmetic concerns, but also potential indicators of underlying cardiovascular problems.

How to manage high-skin cholesterol symptoms?

If you notice any of these cholesterol symptoms in the skin, follow these steps:

1. Get fasting lipid profile test

This blood test measures LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. This is a type of fat found in the body. This test can help you find out if your cholesterol levels are high and you need treatment. You should fast at least 8 hours before this type of test.

2. Adopt lifestyle changes

Your cardiologist will instruct you to follow a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat and high in fiber to manage skin cholesterol symptoms. “You increase your fiber intake by having oats, legumes, vegetables and fruits. You eat healthy fats found in foods like nuts, seeds and fatty fish like salmon.” Experts say.

3. Exercise regularly

Regular training is required to manage skin cholesterol symptoms. According to the American Heart Association, about 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic exercise in a week can help lower cholesterol. So, wear your sneakers and go for walks or runs.

4. Avoid smoking or drinking

If you drink alcohol regularly and frequently reach out to cigarettes, you should give up on those habits. “Smoking can reduce HDL levels and increase the risk of arterial occlusion, but excessive alcohol consumption can increase triglyceride levels,” experts say.

5. Consider treatment

After you notice skin cholesterol symptoms, lifestyle changes may not be sufficient. “Doctors may prescribe medications such as statins, fibrates, and PCSK9 inhibitors to lower cholesterol levels. Ezetimibe may also be given to reduce cholesterol absorption from food,” says experts. says

High cholesterol is often silent, but can lead to changes in the skin in some people. These high cholesterol symptoms in the skin may be bad for your heart health, so you should not ignore them. I’ll go to a health check, a balanced diet, and continue working to reduce cholesterol.