Hypercholesterolemia which manifests itself as a high level of cholesterol in the blood does not cause symptoms, it is said to be “silent”. Conversely, complications from excess cholesterol in the blood can lead to symptoms.
Cholesterol corresponds to a fatty substance produced by our body and present in food. It is an essential element for the structure of cell membranes or the synthesis of many hormones. However, high blood cholesterol levels are a common disorder that can affect our health.
1. What are the symptoms of complications from excess LDL cholesterol? Chest pain
Commonly called “bad cholesterol”, LDL cholesterol can indirectly cause chest pain. This is explained by the accumulation of fats in the arteries which supply blood to the heart. These fatty deposits constitute plaques which tend to obstruct and damage the arteries. The lack of oxygen which results from this phenomenon then leads in certain cases to chest pain, this is angina. While excess cholesterol can generally cause angina or angina, it also increases the risk of heart attack or stroke. Usually, angina pectoris manifests itself as localized pain in the sternum, lasting a few minutes. In some individuals, such as the elderly or diabetic patients, this symptom of excess cholesterol remains completely silent. In other cases, chest pain may radiate to the shoulders, jaw, or left side.
2. Pain in the calves: what are the symptoms of arteriopathy?
When fatty plaques linked to bad cholesterol accumulate in the arteries of the lower limbs, pain similar to muscle cramps may be felt. This phenomenon results from osteoarthritis, a narrowing of blood vessels, thus reducing the oxygen supply to the muscles. The symptoms of arteriopathy caused by the formation of these fatty deposits appear gradually and cause ischemia of the muscles of the lower limb starting with the extremities. Depending on where the blockage in the arteries is located, excess cholesterol can also be the cause of erectile dysfunction.
3. Phantosmia: what are these olfactory hallucinations caused by excess cholesterol?
According to a study carried out in the United States and published in 2020 in the medical journal Laryngoscope, excess cholesterol could be the cause of olfactory hallucinations. Indeed, researchers from the National Institutes of Health in Maryland have demonstrated that there is a link between the perception of certain odors and a high level of cholesterol.
Among the so-called ghost odors described by the participants, we generally observe unpleasant or fetid odors, as well as a burning or smoke odor. This condition called phantosmia can be temporary or, on the contrary, lasting.
4. Yellow bumps at eye level? It could be cholesterol deposits.
Vision problems can be indicative of hypercholesterolemia. On the other hand, excess cholesterol can cause xanthelasmas, yellow bumps caused by cholesterol deposition. These spots are mainly located near the eyes or nose. Although this phenomenon does not impair vision, it is a common eye symptom of high cholesterol levels. Finally, excess cholesterol can cause retinal vein occlusion.
5. Tingling and cold feeling in the extremities: can excess cholesterol cause ulcers?
An excess of bad cholesterol can promote the development of ulcers or skin damage. Thus, a feeling of tingling or cold in the legs or feet could be due to high cholesterol. Pain or tingling in the hands turns out to be a warning sign. It is also common for these inconveniences to affect the feet. Typically, these pains occur at night or when the legs are elevated. However, these unpleasant sensations tend to settle in over time.
6. Cholesterol and neurological disorders? Monitor vision problems and dizziness
Just like heart problems, excess cholesterol can cause neurological problems. Indeed, damage to the arteries by fatty deposits sometimes results in speech difficulties, balance problems or walking problems. Among the neurological disorders caused by hypercholesterolemia, we also see vision problems or dizziness. However, these signs may reflect a more serious condition, so you should consult a doctor quickly if in doubt.
7. Are sleep disorders a sign of bad cholesterol?
A lack of sleep contributes to bad cholesterol. However, conversely, high cholesterol has been shown to promote sleep disorders. Insomnia or drowsiness could then result from a high level of bad cholesterol in the blood.
Sources:
- National library of medicine, French Federation of Cardiology, Inserm
- Phantom odor perception and vascular conditions among adults in the United States: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014