High cholesterol often presents no noticeable symptoms for years, making regular checkups crucial for early detection. Doctors advise being vigilant for subtle external signs and changes in overall well-being.

Specific skin changes can indicate elevated cholesterol levels. Xanthelasmas, yellowish plaques appearing around the eyelids, are a key indicator. Xanthomas, skin growths that develop in the area of tendons, particularly on fingers, elbows, knees, and buttocks, are another sign. These can range in size from 1 to 5 cm and have a dark yellow or brownish color.

High cholesterol can impair blood flow, affecting the legs. This can lead to coldness, paleness, or a bluish tint in the legs. Pain while walking, initially subtle but potentially progressing to spasms, is another symptom. Other leg-related signs include numbness, weakness, loss of sensitivity, slow-healing ulcers (even from minor injuries), muscle atrophy, and the development of heel spurs.

Beyond external signs, general health indicators can point to high cholesterol. These include rapid fatigue, headaches, dizziness, chest pain, angina pectoris, and high blood pressure (ischemia).

A laboratory blood test is recommended to confirm high cholesterol. This includes tests for total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and the atherogenic coefficient. In some cases, an ultrasound of large vessels may also be necessary. If several of the listed symptoms occur, it is advisable to promptly consult a doctor and get tested.