High Cholesterol Warning: This Colourful Facial Symptom Should Not Be Ignored

High cholesterol levels happen when there are too many lipids or fats in your blood. It is also known as hyperlipidemia, or hypercholesterolemia, in which extra fats build up in your arteries and combine

with other substances in your blood to form plaque. Over time, if left unaddressed, it raises the risk of chronic heart diseases, heart attack, or a stroke. However, what makes it even riskier is that the condition often comes without any symptoms; however, one warning sign can appear on your face. Arcus senilis is a major warning sign on the face and is significantly characterised by a blue-grey ring in the eye. Also known as corneal arcus, this bluish-grey ring develops around the iris – the coloured part of the eye. According to experts, it forms gradually as a consequence of cholesterol build-up. While it may not affect your vision and is usually common, it is more pronounced among men over 40 years old. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the ring is made from a fatty substance. The cornea is usually clear and allows the colour of the iris to show through. The colourful ring can make the iris look like it has various shades.

How does arcus senilis occur?

According to experts, arcus senilis mostly begins as a short arc of colour along the top and bottom of the cornea. These arcs over time connect to form a complete ring and usually develop in those with normal cholesterol levels at an older age, too; however, if the ring forms in those under 45, it could be a symptom of high cholesterol. The best way to get diagnosed with high cholesterol is to get a blood test done or a finger-prick test. Once confirmed, doctors can recommend a cholesterol-lowering medication like statins or suggest lifestyle changes for better management. A few of these include:

• Cut back on the intake of fatty foods – especially those that are loaded with saturated and trans fats
• Quit smoking
• Stop drinking alcohol
• Make sure to work out daily to lose weight

What causes high cholesterol levels?

There are many lifestyle factors, along with genetics, which play a major role in causing high cholesterol. A few of these lifestyle factors include:

Smoking and tobacco use

According to experts, smoking lowers your “good cholesterol” and raises your “bad cholesterol.”

Being under stress

Stress triggers hormonal changes that cause your body to produce cholesterol.

Drinking alcohol

Too much alcohol in your body can raise your total cholesterol.

Not moving enough

Physical activity, like aerobic exercise helps improve your cholesterol numbers. If you have a desk job or sit a lot in your free time, your body won’t be able to produce enough “good cholesterol.”

Diet

Many foods may raise or lower your cholesterol levels. Discuss with your doctor the foods you must eat to remain healthy.