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<\/p>\nHigh cholesterol often has no symptoms, but xanthelasma and corneal arcus are two warning signs that can appear on the face and eyes<\/p>\n
Two lesser-known signs of high cholesterol can be seen on the face – stock photo<\/p>\n
Two warning signs of a “silent killer” condition could manifest on the face. These lesser-known indicators may signal high cholesterol<\/a>.<\/p>\n High cholesterol has earned its notorious nickname the “silent killer” due to typically presenting no symptoms, however, there are some telltale signs to be vigilant about.<\/p>\n The condition develops when excessive levels of a fatty substance known as cholesterol accumulate in the bloodstream. While the body requires some cholesterol to function properly, too much can prove dangerous.<\/p>\n Excess cholesterol can build up in the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden, which restricts blood flow and heightens the risk of heart attacks<\/a> and strokes. A Healthy Ireland Survey conducted in 2023 found that 5% of people in Ireland have high cholesterol \u2013 that’s around 328,000 people, with many remaining oblivious until they undergo blood tests or encounter associated health<\/a> complications.<\/p>\n On its website, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) states: “Most people with high cholesterol have no symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get your cholesterol levels checked by having a blood test.”<\/p>\n An excess of cholesterol can cause the arteries to harden and narrow(Image: Getty)<\/p>\n However, particular symptoms can occasionally surface, especially when high cholesterol stems from familial hypercholesterolaemia – an inherited form of the condition, reports the Daily Record<\/a>. In such cases, distinctive signs may appear on the face, which the BHF highlights to raise awareness:<\/p>\n Xanthelasmas – small, yellow lumps of cholesterol near the inner corner of your eyeCorneal arcus – this is a pale white ring around the coloured part of your eye, your irisXanthelasmas<\/p>\n These are “harmless” yellow growths that appear on or by the corners of your eyelids next to your nose. The Cleveland Clinic says: “Cholesterol deposits build up under your skin to form a xanthelasma.”<\/p>\n Roughly half of those who develop xanthelasmas have raised cholesterol levels. Nevertheless, xanthelasmas could be indicative of another condition, such as:<\/p>\n Xanthelasmas are small, yellow lumps of cholesterol found near the inner corner of your eye(Image: Getty)<\/p>\n Corneal arcus<\/p>\n This manifests as a grey or white arc visible in the eye above and below the outer cornea. Cardiologist Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, writing for the Mayo Clinic, said: “Eventually, the arc may become a complete ring around the iris. The iris is the coloured portion of the eye.”<\/p>\n He further noted that it doesn’t impair your vision or require treatment. However, should you notice this sign, you ought to consult your GP.<\/p>\n To prevent high cholesterol or to bring your levels down, the HSE recommends:<\/p>\n eating a healthy, balanced diet that’s low in saturated fatexercising regularlynot smokingcutting down on alcohol<\/p>\n Should you have any concerns regarding your cholesterol, it is advisable to speak to a doctor.<\/p>\n Want to see more of the stories you love from the Irish Mirror? Making us your preferred source on Google<\/a> means you\u2019ll get more of our exclusives, top stories and must-read content straight away. 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