7 Warning Signs of High Cholesterol in Women You Shouldn't Ignore

7 Warning Signs of High Cholesterol in Women You Shouldn't Ignore

Cholesterol is a type of fat that your body needs to build cells and produce certain hormones. However, when there is too much cholesterol in your blood, it can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. High cholesterol often doesn’t show symptoms right away, and many people may not even know they have it until it leads to a major health issue. Women, in particular, may experience different signs of high cholesterol. Being aware of these signs can help catch the problem early. In this article, we’ll discuss seven warning signs of high cholesterol in women that should not be ignored.

1. Fatty Deposits Around the Eyes

One of the first signs that your cholesterol levels may be too high is the appearance of yellowish lumps or fatty deposits near your eyes. These lumps, called xanthelasma, form when cholesterol builds up in the blood and deposits under the skin. Though they are not usually painful, they are a visible warning sign of high cholesterol. If you notice any lumps around your eyes, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor and check your cholesterol levels.

Why It Happens: The deposits form because the cholesterol in the blood builds up under the skin, especially near the eyes.

2. Frequent Fatigue

Feeling tired or drained all the time, even after a good night’s sleep, could also be a sign of high cholesterol. When cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it makes it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently. This reduces the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the rest of the body, leading to tiredness. If you notice that you feel unusually tired, it may be a sign that high cholesterol is affecting your heart’s ability to function properly.

Why It Happens: When cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it restricts blood flow, making the heart work harder. This can leave you feeling more fatigued than usual.

3. Chest Pain (Angina)

Chest pain, or angina, is one of the more serious symptoms of high cholesterol. When plaque (a mixture of cholesterol and other substances) builds up in the coronary arteries, it can block blood flow to the heart, causing chest pain. This pain may occur when you’re active or feeling stressed. If you experience chest pain, it’s important to seek medical help immediately, as it can indicate a heart attack or other serious heart issues.

Why It Happens: The plaque buildup in the arteries narrows the blood vessels, leading to chest pain, particularly during physical activity.

4. Shortness of Breath

If you feel short of breath even during simple activities, like walking or climbing stairs, it could be a sign of high cholesterol. When cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it can block blood flow to the lungs and other organs, making it harder for the body to get enough oxygen. This leads to breathlessness. If you experience shortness of breath, especially during normal activities, it’s important to have your cholesterol levels checked.

Why It Happens: Restricted blood flow due to cholesterol buildup prevents enough oxygen from reaching your lungs and body, making it harder to breathe.

5. Numbness or Coldness in Extremities

If your hands, feet, or other extremities feel cold, numb, or tingly, it could be due to poor circulation caused by high cholesterol. When cholesterol blocks or narrows the blood vessels, the blood flow to your limbs decreases. As a result, you might experience these uncomfortable sensations, especially in your fingers and toes. If this happens regularly, it could be a sign that your cholesterol levels are affecting your circulation.

Why It Happens: Cholesterol buildup causes narrowing of the blood vessels, reducing circulation to your hands, feet, and other extremities, leading to numbness or coldness.

6. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High cholesterol is closely linked to high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. As cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it narrows the passageways for blood to flow, making the heart work harder. This increases the pressure inside the blood vessels, causing high blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to serious complications, including heart disease and stroke. It’s important to regularly monitor your blood pressure if you have high cholesterol.

Why It Happens: The buildup of cholesterol in the arteries increases resistance to blood flow, raising blood pressure and putting strain on the heart.

7. Pain in the Legs

Pain or cramping in the legs, especially when walking or exercising, may be a sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is caused by cholesterol buildup in the leg arteries. PAD occurs when plaque narrows or blocks the arteries in the legs, causing pain, cramping, or weakness, particularly when moving. If the pain improves with rest, it could be a sign of PAD, and you should have your cholesterol levels checked to avoid further complications.

Why It Happens: Cholesterol causes the arteries in the legs to narrow, reducing blood flow and leading to pain or cramping during physical activity.

High cholesterol is often called a "silent killer" because it doesn’t always show noticeable symptoms. However, the signs listed above are some early indicators that your cholesterol levels may be too high. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your doctor and get your cholesterol levels tested. Cholesterol can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke, so regular checkups and cholesterol screenings are crucial for maintaining good health.

Living a healthy lifestyle—eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking—can help lower your cholesterol and reduce the risk of serious complications. If you notice any of these warning signs, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider for early detection and better heart health.

Disclaimer 

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided here is based on general health knowledge and is not meant to replace personalized care. If you notice any of the symptoms discussed, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and appropriate tests. High cholesterol can lead to serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues, so early detection and management are key to maintaining heart health. Always seek professional advice before making any changes to your health routine or diet.