Cholesterol warning sign that can be found in your toenail

A strange symptom affecting the toenails could signal a dangerous build-up of cholesterol in the legs. This warning sign might suggest you are at heightened risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Having elevated cholesterol levels, medically termed hypercholesterolaemia, indicates an excess of a fatty substance called cholesterol circulating in your bloodstream. While this condition might not trigger immediate problems, it can slowly heighten your chances of numerous severe health complications.

Cholesterol deposits can accumulate within arteries, restricting proper blood circulation, reports Bristol Live. It constitutes a significant risk factor for heart disease, which continues to be the primary cause of death, claiming approximately 18 million lives worldwide each year.

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Alarmingly, high cholesterol typically displays no warning symptoms, earning its reputation as a "silent killer". Most individuals stay oblivious to their condition until they suffer a related health crisis or undergo blood examination.

The NHS states: "High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. You can only find out if you have it from a blood test."

Nevertheless, various warning indicators exist that could prove life-saving when detected early. This encompasses developing a condition called peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The NHS explains that PAD represents a widespread condition where fatty deposit accumulation in arteries "restricts" blood flow to leg muscles. PAD may not always present with obvious symptoms, yet it can cause noticeable changes to your toenails.

The NHS lists "brittle, slow-growing toenails" as a possible sign of the condition. Additional warning signs to watch for on the feet include hair loss and ulcers that refuse to heal. "The symptoms of PAD often develop slowly, over time," the health service explains.

A rapid onset or deterioration of symptoms could signal a serious issue that requires urgent medical care. One common symptom of PAD occurs while walking. According to the NHS, some people may experience a "painful" ache in their legs during walking, which normally eases after resting for a few minutes. The NHS says: "The pain can range from mild to severe, and usually goes away after a few minutes when you rest your legs."

It is typical for both legs to be impacted at the same time, although one leg may suffer more intense discomfort. Other symptoms linked with PAD include:

Having PAD also raises the risk of coronary heart disease, the primary cause of death from cardiovascular diseases in the UK. To lower cholesterol levels, the NHS recommends:.

If you have concerns about your cholesterol levels, you should speak with your GP.