Cholesterol is indispensable for bodily functions; too much of it is harmful
High cholesterol is a silent killer and the awareness around cholesterol has increased in the last few years.
Cholesterol, in its right amount, is extremely crucial to perform bodily functions. One of the main functions of cholesterol involves the cell, the basic unit of life. Cholesterol serves as a precursor for the synthesis of vital substances in the body like steroids, bile and vitamin D.
What happens when cholesterol crosses its threshold level?
When the amount of cholesterol in the body crosses 200 mg/dL it is said to be high cholesterol and doctors advise several changes in the diet to lifestyle to control the cholesterol level.
When cholesterol level remains high in the blood for too long it leads to critical conditions like increasing risk of heart diseases, and stroke.
High cholesterol signs are often "silent"
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However, if one is careful and pays attention there are certain signs of high cholesterol which can be easily spotted.
Here we will discuss the different signs of high cholesterol that are seen in the legs.
Claudication
Claudication is one of the most important signs of high cholesterol seen in the legs.
This condition is characterized by pain, cramps and fatigue in the muscles of the legs. This often happens after walking a certain distance and goes away when the person rests.
Claudication pain is felt mostly in the calves, thighs, buttocks, hips and feet.
The pain gets severe over time.
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Cold feet and legs
This is another typical symptom of high cholesterol.
Feeling cold and chilly especially during the summers and when the temperature is high is an indication that you have peripheral artery disease.
This condition might not bother you initially, but if it persists for a longer duration do not delay further and get it checked from your doctor.
Change in skin color and texture in the legs
High cholesterol causes plaque deposition in the blood vessels which affects the flow of the blood. When less blood reaches certain areas it affects the overall function and skin texture of that particular limb.
If you notice certain changes in the skin color and texture in your legs and have no other reasons for it, it is likely that high cholesterol may be the reason. Do not delay further and get it tested from your doctor.
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