In the realm of health concerns, high cholesterol ranks prominently due to its potential impact on cardiovascular health. Cholesterol, a vital but potentially harmful substance when elevated, can manifest telltale signs on the face and around the eyes. These indicators serve as early warnings to take proactive steps towards better heart health amidst our increasingly sedentary lifestyles.
- Yellow Patches on Eyelids: Known as xanthelasma, these yellowish patches around the eyelids are accumulations of cholesterol deposits. While generally harmless, they often indicate elevated blood cholesterol levels and may suggest an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Seeking medical advice upon noticing xanthelasma is prudent, as it can prompt interventions to manage cholesterol and assess overall heart health.
- Changes in Corneal Appearance: Two distinct changes around the cornea can signal high cholesterol:
- Arcus Senilis: A white or grey ring encircling the cornea’s edge, typically seen in older individuals but sometimes observed in those under 45. This condition arises from cholesterol deposits and warrants attention as a potential indicator of elevated cholesterol levels.
- Corneal Arcus: Similar to Arcus Senilis but more common in younger individuals, appearing as a white or grey ring surrounding the cornea. Its presence may also correlate with high cholesterol and merit further evaluation.
- Skin Discoloration: Hyperlipidemia, characterized by excess lipids in the blood, including cholesterol, can cause xanthoderma—a yellowish pigmentation of the skin. This discolouration often appears prominently on the face and around the eyes, indicating lipid buildup within the skin’s layers. While not always persistent, its occurrence suggests the need for cholesterol testing and management.
- Yellowish Pimples (Xanthomas): Xanthomas are benign growths resulting from cholesterol accumulation in specific skin cells. They can manifest as small yellowish pimples or larger raised patches, typically found on the cheeks, eyelids, or areas surrounding the eyes. Although usually painless, their presence may signal underlying lipid metabolic issues or elevated cholesterol levels, necessitating medical attention for further assessment and management.
Recognizing these facial and ocular signs of high cholesterol provides an opportunity for early detection and intervention. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential upon noticing any of these symptoms to initiate appropriate cholesterol management strategies and safeguard cardiovascular health.
The author,
Recognizing these facial and ocular signs of high cholesterol provides an opportunity for early detection and intervention. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential upon noticing any of these symptoms to initiate appropriate cholesterol management strategies and safeguard cardiovascular health.
The author, Parmita Uniyal is a writer for Hindustan Times.
