Do you have high or low cholesterol levels without knowing?
Here are some tips to identify it by examining your legs and feet. Let's find out…
Xanthomas: These are yellowish, waxy deposits of cholesterol that can develop under the skin, particularly around joints or tendons in the legs and feet. They may appear as small bumps or patches and can indicate high cholesterol levels.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): High cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, restricting blood flow to the legs and feet. Symptoms of PAD include leg pain, cramping, numbness, or weakness, especially during physical activity.
Xanthelasma: Similar to xanthomas, xanthelasma are yellowish cholesterol deposits that occur on the eyelids. However, they can also appear on other parts of the body, including the legs. These deposits can be a sign of high cholesterol levels in the blood.
Leg ulcers: Reduced blood flow to the legs due to cholesterol buildup in the arteries can lead to the development of leg ulcers. These are open sores that may be slow to heal and can become infected if not properly treated.
Discoloration or hair loss: High cholesterol can contribute to poor circulation, which may manifest as changes in skin color or loss of hair on the legs and feet. The skin may appear pale, blue, or reddish, and hair growth may be reduced.