Little-known leg symptoms may mean high cholesterol

Little-known leg symptoms may mean high cholesterol High cholesterol is a 'silent killer' condition that can raise your risk of heart attacks and strokes High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, involves having an excess amount of a fatty substance called cholesterol in the blood. Initially, it may seem harmless, but over time, it can heighten the risk of severe health complications such as heart attacks and strokes. Cholesterol build-up can lead to blocked arteries, which impede proper blood flow and significantly increase the danger of cardiovascular diseases. In the UK, cardiovascular disease is the cause of approximately a quarter of all deaths. The most concerning issue is that high cholesterol typically doesn't have any symptoms. This means countless cases go undetected until a related medical emergency strikes, or until a GP carries out routine testing. The NHS confirms this silent nature of the condition: "High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. You can only find out if you have it from a blood test." Despite this, there are certain warning signs that, if identified early enough, could prove lifesaving. One such indicator is the development of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD is a widespread condition in which fatty deposits within the arteries block the blood supply to leg muscles - a problem the NHS states clearly "restricts" circulation to these muscles. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) doesn't always produce noticeable symptoms, yet it can trigger warning signs that manifest in the legs, as reported by Surrey Live. The NHS has outlined a number of such indicators, among them hair loss and foot ulcers. "The symptoms of PAD often develop slowly, over time," the health body advises. "If your symptoms develop quickly, or get suddenly worse, it could be a sign of a serious problem requiring immediate treatment." Of these warning signs, an aching pain while walking is the most frequently reported. This discomfort "usually" subsides after a few minutes' rest, says the NHS. The pain can range from mild to severe and typically eases after giving your legs a short rest. "Both legs are often affected at the same time, although the pain may be worse in one leg." Further symptoms of PAD can include shiny skin and erectile dysfunction. Having PAD also significantly increases the risk of coronary heart disease, the leading cause of death amongst cardiovascular diseases in the UK. If you're worried you may have PAD, or are concerned about your cholesterol levels, you should consult your doctor. To lower your cholesterol levels, the NHS recommend seating less fatty foods, quitting smoking, cutting down on alcohol, and getting more exercise.