Many cases of hypercholesterolemia go unnoticed because the pathology does not generally manifest itself with visible symptoms. Only a blood test can detect high cholesterol levels, due to an excess of lipoproteins in the blood.
However, high cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol (or “bad” cholesterol), is an important risk factor for peripheral artery disease. This pathology is characterized by a narrowing of the arteries which supply blood to the limbs, mainly the legs, due to fatty deposits or atherosclerotic plaques formed by LDL cholesterol. The National Health Service (NHS), the British public health service, raises public awareness of warning symptoms.
5 symptoms to watch out for
Symptoms can alert you to the onset of peripheral arterial disease and therefore indicate high cholesterol levels. THE National Health Service identified five possible ones:
. hair loss;
. foot ulcers;
. stabbing pain when walking;
. shiny skin;
. erectile dysfunction.
“The symptoms of peripheral arterial disease often develop slowly, over time,” warns the British health body. “If your symptoms develop quickly or suddenly get worse, it may be a sign of a serious problem that needs immediate treatment.”
Pain that appears while walking subsides after resting the legs
According to the NHS, pain that occurs when walking usually goes away after a few minutes of rest. It usually subsides after resting the legs for a few minutes. “Both legs are often affected at the same time, although the pain may be more intense in one leg”explains the health organization.
If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels, the NHS recommends seeing a doctor.
Source : NHS
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