1. Frequent Pain or Numbness in Legs
When cholesterol starts blocking arteries, blood flow to your legs decreases. This can cause cramping, numbness, or pain while walking, which improves with rest. Many people confuse this with weakness, but it’s often a sign of peripheral artery disease.
2. Yellowish Fat Deposits on Skin (Xanthomas)
If you notice yellowish bumps around your eyes, elbows, knees, or heels, these could be fat deposits caused by very high cholesterol levels. They are painless but a serious warning that your body is unable to manage fats properly.
3. Chest Discomfort or Tightness
Even if you look fit, blocked arteries can reduce blood supply to the heart. This leads to mild chest heaviness or tightness, especially during exertion. Many people ignore this early signal of coronary artery blockage.
4. Memory Fog or Difficulty Concentrating
High cholesterol can affect blood flow to the brain, causing mental fog, forgetfulness, or trouble focusing. This happens because reduced circulation affects the brain’s oxygen supply.
5. High Blood Pressure Without Known Cause
Cholesterol buildup narrows your arteries, forcing the heart to pump harder. If your blood pressure is rising suddenly with no lifestyle reasons, hidden cholesterol blockage could be the culprit.
