How to tell if you have high cholesterol
Over the years, cholesterol has earned itself a bad name. Its association with heart diseases, especially heart attack and stroke, makes it extremely concerning. However, cholesterol itself is not bad. On the contrary, this waxy substance helps build healthy cells.
Among the two types of cholesterol - Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and High-density lipoprotein (HDL) - LDL is the 'bad' cholesterol, excess of which can make the walls of your arteries narrow, disallowing the blood to pass through and flow through them.
Why is high cholesterol called a 'silent killer'
Most of the time, high cholesterol may not manifest itself through symptoms. However, a plaque build up in the blood vessels can give rise to many other ailments that could lead to concerning symptoms. As discussed, fatty deposits in the blood vessels can make it difficult for enough blood to pass through and flow through the arteries. This is also called atherosclerosis. Moreover, sometimes, these deposits may break down and form a clot, which can then lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Also read: Common signs of kidney stones you should not overlook
Sensations in your feet that indicate high cholesterol
According to experts, the narrowing of the arteries and the blockage can lead to reduced blood flow to the lower body, especially the legs, causing a condition called peripheral artery disease, or PAD, which can be very 'painful'.
Speaking with Express.co.uk, Doctor Joseph Ambani, from GlowBar says that “cold” or “cramping” feet could indicate high cholesterol.
“High cholesterol can manifest in the feet,” he explained.
“For instance, an individual may feel cramps when moving, but gets relief with rest.
“They may also feel chilly or cold, regardless of the season.
“It does not have to be on both feet. If you notice such, I recommend seeking immediate professional clarification,” he adds.
What is PAD?
According to the Mayo Clinic, peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when the arteries narrow down due to the blockage caused by fatty deposit build up, leading to a reduced blood flow to the arms or legs.
As per the health body, in the case of PAD, the legs or arms (usually the legs) don't receive enough blood flow to keep up with demand. This may cause leg pain when walking - claudication - and other symptoms.
Other signs to watch out for
Other symptoms of PAD include leg numbness or weakness, no or very weak pulse in the legs or feet, shiny skin on the legs, skin color changes on the legs, slower growth of the toenails, sores on the toes, feet or legs that won't heal, and pain when using the arms, such as aching and cramping when knitting, writing or doing other manual tasks.
How to reduce your risk?
Many factors can lead to high cholesterol - an unhealthy lifestyle being one of the top causes.
Having said that, eating a healthier diet and working out regularly can reduce your risk of high cholesterol to a great extent.
Instead of having too much saturated fat or trans fats, switch to green veggies, healthy and hydrating fruits, fiber-rich grains and so on.
Be physically active, even if it includes completing 5 to 10k steps regularly.
Quit smoking and reduce your alcohol consumption.
Furthermore, go for regular health check ups to know your risk and whether or not you need to take more care and caution.