Warning pale nails could be sign of 'silent' killer health threat

An expert has warned of a symptom of what could be a serious health issue that can be detected by looking at your hands. While essential to health, too much cholesterol can cause dire medical issues, silently building up in blood vessels and leading to serious circulation problems.

In the UK, nearly half of adults have raised cholesterol, with many people blissfully unaware as it often does not present clear symptoms until a major event like a heart attack or stroke occurs. But Monika Wassermann of Olio Lusso, speaking to Express.co.uk, has cast light on a potential sign that is often overlooked: the appearance of your nails.

She expressed her concern, stating: "Our bodies should ring alarm bells when under attack. Well, I beg to differ [as] this is not always the case with high cholesterol."

She added, indicating the stealthy nature of the condition: "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."

Among the indicators to look out for, Wassermann warns of one particular hint seen in the nails: paleness. She explains further: "If you didn't know, high cholesterol causes plaque formation in your blood vessels. The plaque then affects blood circulation, resulting in pale nails," reports Surrey Live.

The NHS warns that issues with our nails aren't the only signs to look out for. Aside from "brittle, slow-growing toenails" potentially indicating high cholesterol levels and hinting at peripheral arterial disease (PAD) - a condition where cholesterol clogs arteries, hindering blood flow primarily in the legs - symptoms often develop slowly.

Early detection followed by prompt medical consultation is paramount. Along with these nail indicators, Ms Wassermann also alerts to risk factors of heart attack, stroke and numbness, emphasising the urgency of seeking immediate medical help when spotting pale nails or other mentioned symptoms.

She said: "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 combat elevated cholesterol, NHS suggestions include lifestyle changes, and for those concerned, a talk with your GP is advised.