One little known symptom to look out for on your nails could be sign of high cholesterol
by Fiona Callingham, Diana Buntajova · ChronicleLiveAn expert has triggered a sounding call regarding a discreet sign of high cholesterol that might be revealed on one's hands. Cholesterol is paramount for normal body function, yet elevated levels can result in grievous health predicaments.
It stealthily builds up within blood vessels, engendering blockages and, at its worst, leads to the hardening of arteries, impeding blood flow. Despite this condition affecting approximately two in five individuals in the UK, a significant number are oblivious due to the absence of overt symptoms.
Ordinarily, people become cognizant of their condition following grave medical episodes such as heart attacks or strokes. Nevertheless, Monika Wassermann, the medical director at Olio Lusso, has shed light on a potential telltale sign: one's fingernails.
In remarks made to Express.co.uk, she acknowledged, "Our bodies should ring alarm bells when under attack. Well, I beg to differ [as] this is not always the case with high cholesterol."
Wassermann then elucidated: "High cholesterol attacks in silence, making it difficult to notice its symptoms. However, this does not mean you can completely fail to identify high cholesterol levels in your body.", reports Surrey Live.
She singled out a specific symptom individuals should be alert for: "One red flag could appear on your nails."
She further stressed the importance of observing nails, especially if they exhibit a pale hue.
She expanded on her point, detailing: "If you didn't know, high cholesterol causes plaque formation in your blood vessels. The plaque then affects blood circulation, resulting in pale nails."
The NHS has indicated that this is not the only marker that might present itself upon one's nails, noting that "brittle, slow-growing toenails" could also denote higher levels of cholesterol. Such symptoms may be an early indicator of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), brought on by a build-up of cholesterol in the arteries that limits blood flow to the legs.
Symptoms of PAD tend to emerge over time and should prompt prompt consultation with a healthcare professional once noticed.
Ms Wassermann has also highlighted different signs to watch for, encompassing risks of heart attacks, strokes, and numbness. She stresses: "If by any chance you spot pale nails or other aforementioned symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as you can. Your healthcare provider will perform a blood test to help you find out whether or not it is high cholesterol affecting you."
To mitigate cholesterol levels, the NHS suggests:
- Avoiding saturated fats
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, seeds and healthy fats
- Exercising regularly
- Quitting smoking
- Reducing your alcohol intake
For those worried about their cholesterol, it is advisable to converse with your GP.
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