High cholesterol, often called the “silent killer,” rarely shows symptoms. Yet, in rare cases, it can manifest visible signs on the face and skin. These clues, though subtle, might show underlying lipid imbalances like hyperlipidemia.
FACIAL SYMPTOMS OF HIGH CHOLESTEROL
Xanthelasmas: Yellow Bumps on the Eyelids
Xanthelasmas are soft-to-firm, yellowish patches or bumps on the eyelids. They commonly occur in the mid-upper and lower eyelid regions. These lesions form due to lipid deposits under the skin.
- Characteristics: Painless and waxy in appearance.
- Cause: High cholesterol or high triglycerides.
- Treatment: Minimally invasive surgery, medication, lasers, or lifestyle modifications to manage the underlying cause.
While not all individuals with xanthelasmas have high cholesterol, doctors often recommend a lipid panel for those presenting these symptoms.
Corneal Arcus: Gray Rings Around the Eyes
A corneal arcus appears as a grayish-white ring around the cornea—the transparent layer covering the iris and pupil.
- Cause: Very high cholesterol, often in people with a family history of hyperlipidemia.
- Significance: Its presence, especially in younger individuals, warrants cholesterol testing.
SKIN CONDITIONS LINKED TO HIGH CHOLESTEROL
High lipid condition can also contribute to inflammatory dermatological conditions, including:
Lichen Planus (LP)
Lichen planus is an itchy rash that may appear on the skin or inside the mouth.
- Symptoms:
- Shiny purple or red bumps on wrists, arms, back, and ankles.
- Lacy white patches on the tongue or cheeks.
- Correlation: Research links LP to high cholesterol and triglycerides.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis causes thick, scaly patches on the skin.
- Common Areas: Scalp, knees, elbows, lower back, and sometimes the face.
- Skin Appearance:
- Pink or red on lighter skin.
- Dark or purplish on darker skin.
- Cause: High cholesterol may trigger the IL-17A gene, leading to keratinocyte buildup.
Eruptive Xanthoma
Eruptive xanthoma manifests as multiple pink, red, or yellow bumps on the skin, often on elbows, hands, and knees.
- Cause: Very high triglycerides, posing risks of acute pancreatitis.
- Face Involvement: Can appear on cheeks, forehead, and upper eyelids.
- Prevalence: Affects about 10% of people with high lipid.
OTHER DERMATOLOGICAL CONDITIONS LINKED TO HIGH CHOLESTEROL
Several inflammatory skin conditions may correlate with high cholesterol, including:
- Histiocytosis: A disorder causing abnormal buildup of immune cells.
- Granuloma Annulare: Ring-shaped rashes linked to lipid imbalances.
- Pemphigus Vulgaris: An autoimmune blistering disorder.
These conditions may not always indicate high cholesterol but should prompt further investigation.
DIAGNOSING HIGH CHOLESTEROL: BLOOD TESTING
Visible symptoms like xanthelasmas or corneal arcus are rare. Most people remain unaware of their high cholesterol until a blood test reveals it.
How to Test:
- Lipid Panel: Measures LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and triglycerides.
- Recommended Frequency:
- Every 4–6 years for adults over 20 years old.
- More frequent tests for individuals over 40 or with cardiovascular risks.
MANAGING HIGH CHOLESTEROL-RELATED SKIN SYMPTOMS
Lifestyle Modifications
- Diet:
- Reduce saturated fats and trans fats.
- Increase intake of fiber-rich foods, fruits, and vegetables.
- Exercise:
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity weekly.
- Weight Management:
- Maintain a healthy BMI to reduce lipid levels.
Medical Interventions
- Statins: Lower LDL cholesterol effectively.
- Fibrates: Reduce triglycerides and improve overall lipid profile.
- Cosmetic Treatments: Lasers, surgical excision, or other dermatological procedures for xanthelasmas.
PREVENTION AND EARLY DETECTION
Early detection and management are key to preventing complications from high cholesterol.
- Regular cholesterol testing helps monitor lipid levels.
- Addressing visible symptoms promptly may reduce long-term cardiovascular risks.
