High cholesterol is one of the most dangerous health problems you can have. It can lead to heart attack, stroke, and early death. Despite how dangerous it is, tens of millions of Americans have high cholesterol, and many of them don’t even know it. Interestingly enough, there are signs of high cholesterol that you can see on your hands and face, without needing to have a blood test. These signs take the form of visible fatty deposits under the skin called xanthomas. Xanthomas are a sign that you health is truly in danger. This is everything that you need to know.
High Cholesterol and Xanthomas
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in the blood and cells of the body. It is an important substance, playing a crucial role in building healthy cells and producing certain hormones. In fact, your body actually produces cholesterol itself. Cholesterol is categorized into two main types: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as “good” cholesterol. Cholesterol itself is not a bad thing – as already mentioned, we actually create it in our bodies and need it for certain bodily functions. Problems arise, however, when we have too much of it, commonly known as high cholesterol. High cholesterol refers to elevated levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood and is usually achieved via a poor diet and lifestyle. High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Lifestyle factors, genetics, diet, and certain medical conditions can contribute to high cholesterol levels. Regular screenings and appropriate management are essential in controlling and reducing high cholesterol to protect overall health and well-being.
Xanthomas are fatty cholesterol deposits under the skin. They typically appear as yellow bumps under the skin. They can also develop on internal organs. They are a sign that you don’t only have high cholesterol, but critically so. The presence of xanthomas can signal the need for medical attention as they are often associated with other serious conditions. People with xanthomas are advised to consult a doctor for testing to determine the underlying cause. These health conditions, if left untreated, can be life-threatening.
Identifying Xanthomas
Xanthomas appear as small bumps on the skin that vary in size. They are usually yellowish in color and can range from quite small to up to 3 inches across. Sometimes they appear singularly, but often in clusters. They are not usually painful but they can be itchy and a bit tender. Xanthomas will often appear on the hands, feet, and in the creases of the eyes and eyelids. They can also appear on other parts of the body, including joints, tendons, and the buttocks. As mentioned, they can develop on the internal organs, as well, however you likely won’t know that they are there.
Causes of Xanthomas
Xanthomas are primarily a symptom of elevated blood lipids, specifically cholesterol and triglycerides. Factors contributing to xanthoma development include conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, metabolic disorders, liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, thyroid issues, and certain cancers. While some of these conditions, such as cancer, are somewhat out of your control, in many cases xanthomas are caused by elevated cholesterol levels due to poor diet and lifestyle choices.
Read More: Omega-3 Supplements Reduce RIsk of High Total Cholesterol, LDL, and Triglyceride Levels, Study
Diagnostic Procedures
In order to confirm that the bumps on your skin are, in fact, xanthomas, you will have to visit your doctor. Medical professionals often recommend various tests to diagnose underlying health issues associated with xanthomas. This will likely include a biopsy of the xanthomas themselves, as well as blood tests for your cholesterol levels and to determine other potential conditions. These can include tests for diabetes, pancreatitis, and thyroid problems.
Treatment Options
Treatment for xanthomas may involve their physical removal through surgery or laser therapy. However, xanthomas can recur after removal. Do not try to ‘pop’ xanthomas on your own – this will not solve the problem and will generally lead to scarring and other issues. Managing the underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, hypothyroidism, or cardiovascular issues, is crucial for overall health and preventing xanthomas from coming back. Of course, getting your blood cholesterol levels under control will be paramount. If your cholesterol levels are within a healthy range, your body will have no need to deposit additional cholesterol elsewhere.
Common Treatment Approaches
As already mentioned, the treatment plan for your xanthomas, beyond their removal, will involve a plan to treat their underlying condition or conditions. For example, you will likely be put on a plan to lower and manage your cholesterol levels. In addition, you will be put on a plan to treat the accompanying conditions. These can include, but are not limited to:
- Diabetes: Lifestyle modifications, diet control, exercise, and insulin therapy.
- Liver disease: Dietary changes, exercise, addressing alcohol dependence, and necessary medications.
- Hypothyroidism: Synthetic thyroid hormones along with lifestyle adjustments.
- Cardiovascular issues: Lifestyle changes and medication to control blood lipid levels are crucial.
Other Signs of High Cholesterol On Your Skin and Face
Xanthomas aren’t the only signs of high cholesterol that your body may be trying to signal to you. These signs are ones not to be ignored. This is because, by the time you have visible signs of high cholesterol on your skin and body, this usually indicates that your levels are at a critical level. You are at extreme risk for heart attack, stroke, and other very serious complications if left untreated. Visit your doctor right away if you have any of these signs.
Corneal Arcus
A grayish-white ring around the cornea of the eye, known as a corneal arcus, is another sign of elevated cholesterol levels. This is particularly in individuals with a family history of high cholesterol. Again, this is not an early sign but rather one that indicates a serious problem. A doctor may recommend further blood tests for lipid panels to confirm cholesterol levels in individuals presenting with a corneal arcus.
Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is a common condition that causes an itchy rash on the skin or inside the mouth. Research indicates that lichen planus may be linked to dyslipidemia, including high cholesterol levels. While not all individuals with lichen planus will have elevated cholesterol levels, some studies have shown a correlation between the two. Symptoms of lichen planus may include shiny purple or red bumps that itch and can appear on various parts of the body, including the face. It is important if you think you have lichen planus to get checked out by a doctor right away. If you have other indicators, such as family history of high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes, if you have already been diagnosed with the previously mentioned health problems, it is much more likely that you have uncontrolled high cholesterol. Regardless, you should see your doctor as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause.
The Bottom Line
Xanthomas, as well as other indicators such as corneal arcus and lichen planus, are visible indicators of potential underlying health problems that require medical attention. These are not early signs of elevated cholesterol, but rather signs that your cholesterol is already at a dangerous level. Prompt evaluation and management are vital to prevent complications and improve overall well-being. If you suspect that you have high cholesterol due to the presence of xanthomas or other, seeking medical advice is essential to determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
Read More: 6 Warning Signs of High Cholesterol You Might Notice While You’re Walking
