High cholesterol, often called the "silent killer," is like an enemy lurking in the shadows, only making itself known at critical moments. The danger lies in its lack of warning signs on the health "radar." Many people only realise their cholesterol levels are excessively high after experiencing severe events like a heart attack or stroke.
Cholesterol is an essential substance for our body, helping to build the "bricks and mortar" of cells. However, when there’s too much of it, it becomes like excess "building materials" clogging blood vessels. This clogging narrows and hardens the "highways" for blood flow, hindering circulation. Eventually, it may lead to cardiovascular diseases or strokes. Although high cholesterol often shows no noticeable symptoms, the body sometimes provides subtle "clues." On the face, in particular, you may discover "markers" quietly revealing secrets about your health. These signs are like "codes" hidden on the body’s surface, waiting for you to decipher with care.
Have you noticed small yellow bumps suddenly appearing in certain areas of your face? These yellow deposits, known as xanthomas, resemble "tiny yellow islands" on the skin, commonly found near the inner corners of the eyes. These "islands" are deposits formed when excess cholesterol builds up in the body, much like silt accumulating in a river. Though they may seem unimportant, they can carry significant implications. However, not all xanthomas indicate high cholesterol. They might also relate to other health issues like diabetes or thyroid dysfunction. Regardless, if you spot these "islands," it’s wise to consult a doctor, as they could be messengers of cholesterol problems.
Another concealed "warning sign" is arcus senilis, a greyish-white or silver ring appearing around the iris. It resembles an irregular necklace encircling the iris. While arcus senilis doesn’t affect vision, it can be a potential marker of elevated cholesterol levels. The formation of this arc is similar to calcified deposits on water pipes. Over time, these deposits subtly "etch" rings in the eyes. Although its presence doesn’t always signal a red flag for health, it’s worth paying attention to when accompanied by other symptoms.
Why is high cholesterol so stealthy? High cholesterol is difficult to detect because it doesn’t cause obvious symptoms like pain, swelling, or fever, akin to a silent alarm. Its damage develops quietly inside the body: cholesterol accumulates on arterial walls, forming plaque similar to limescale, which impedes normal blood flow. It’s like a highway with fewer and fewer lanes while the traffic continues to increase, ultimately leading to gridlock. When vital organs like the heart or brain face a "traffic jam" in their blood supply, serious problems follow.
To prevent high cholesterol, you must stop indulging in sweets and snacks, reduce saturated and trans fat intake, and choose fruits and vegetables for your grocery cart next time. These foods act like "cleaners," keeping your blood vessels clear. Regular exercise serves as the "traffic manager," ensuring smoother blood circulation.
Don’t wait for the "alarm to sound" before taking action. High cholesterol issues don’t develop overnight but are the result of long-term unhealthy eating and lifestyle habits. Just like a seemingly sturdy bridge that eventually collapses due to tiny cracks over time, addressing small signs when the body gives them is crucial. Xanthomas and arcus senilis may only be the "tip of the iceberg" of cholesterol problems, so paying close attention to your body’s changes is the right choice.
