Critical Warning Sign #2: Changes in Appearance
When high cholesterol starts to affect your peripheral arteries, you can see it in your feet. Two key indicators medical experts say to look for are hair loss (on your feet) and brittle, weak toenails. This is because atherosclerosis restricts vital nutrients – as well as blood flow – to your extremities. If theres less nutrients, theres less to keep your hair and toenails vibrant and healthy. The NHS emphasizes that these changes often develop gradually over time. Beyond hair and nail changes, you may notice your skin colour getting paler or appearing more shiny.. If you have a family history of high cholesterol (aypercholesterolemia), these changes may also come with swelling around your Achilles tendon.