High cholesterol red flag symptom in fingernails should ring ‘alarm bells’

High cholesterol can lead to serious health complications but is often symptomless. An expert has now highlighted a warning sign that could be hiding in plain sight – your fingernails.

While cholesterol is essential for various bodily functions, excessively high levels can lead to severe health issues. It can silently accumulate in blood vessels, causing blockages and potentially resulting in hardened arteries that impede blood flow. Despite affecting approximately two in five individuals in the UK, many people are unaware they have high cholesterol due to its typically asymptomatic nature. Often, people only become aware after experiencing serious health events like heart attacks or strokes. However, Monika Wassermann, medical director at Olio Lusso, has pointed out a potential indicator that may be visible: your nails.

Wassermann highlighted pale-coloured nails as a warning sign to watch for. High cholesterol causes plaque formation in blood vessels, affecting blood circulation and resulting in pale nails. The NHS also notes that “brittle, slow-growing toenails” can indicate raised cholesterol levels, often linked with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) due to plaque build-up inside the arteries leading to poor blood flow to extremities. Symptoms of PAD usually emerge over time, and recognising them should prompt immediate medical consultation.

Ms Wassermann mentioned other concerning signs, including an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and experiencing numbness. She advised seeking medical attention promptly if pale nails or other aforementioned symptoms are noticed. Healthcare providers can perform blood tests to determine if high cholesterol is affecting an individual. The NHS recommends various methods for managing cholesterol, such as avoiding foods high in saturated fats, maintaining a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and beneficial oils, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption. Any concerns regarding cholesterol should be discussed with a GP for advice.

In summary, high cholesterol is a common health concern that can often go undetected due to its lack of symptoms. However, paying attention to subtle signs like pale nails can help individuals identify potential issues early on and seek appropriate medical care. By following recommended lifestyle changes and seeking professional guidance, individuals can better manage their cholesterol levels and reduce their risk of associated health complications.