5 subtle signs of high cholesterol that could lead to heart attack

High cholesterol is often called a “silent killer” and rightly so— as it generally shows no symptoms until it is too late and serious damage is already done-- like a heart attack or stroke. According to Worldheartfederation.org, 'High cholesterol causes 3.6 million deaths every year. It is a major a risk factor for heart disease and stroke in both high- and low-income countries.'If left undetected or ignored, high cholesterol levels can trigger deadly events in the long run. While routine blood tests are the best way to detect high cholesterol, your body often gives some subtle clues that something is wrong. Recognising these subtle signs early on can help you get timely medical check up and help prevent a heart attack. So, here we list some subtle symptoms that may indicate your cholesterol levels are dangerously high and should not be ignored:

If you notice that your eyes or the area around your eyelids have become soft with yellowish patches, then it could be a sign of xanthelasma— which is a sign of high LDL (bad) cholesterol. These fatty deposits develop when you have high cholesterol levels in the body, and they accumulate under the skin, especially near the eyes. While it is harmless, it is a subtle cue that can indicate lipid disorders and increased risk of heart disease in the long run.

A 2011 study titled 'Xanthelasmata, arcus corneae, and ischaemic vascular disease and death in general population' reads, "Xanthelasmata predict risk of myocardial infarction, ischaemic heart disease, severe atherosclerosis, and death in the general population, independently of well known cardiovascular risk factors, including plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations."

Do you often feel pain or cramping in your calves, especially while walking? And does it ease when you rest? Then, this may be due to peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is often caused by cholesterol plaque which narrows the arteries in your legs. This is an early sign of systemic atherosclerosis and should not be ignored. Instead, get your lipid profile test done and also consult your doctor.

According to the American College of Cardiology, "The identification of symptomatic PAD has been associated with a 70 percent increased risk of cardiovascular events and 80 percent increased risk of death when compared with patients without PAD."

Even if you occasionally feel chest discomfort or mild chest tightness— especially during physical activity or when under stress— then it can be an early sign of reduced blood flow to the heart due to cholesterol-clogged arteries. This is called angina and shouldn't be ignored. If you feel even mild chest discomfort or pressure, then do consult your doctor immediately.

According to the American Heart Association, angina is a warning sign that precedes many heart attacks.

Do your hands or feet frequently feel numb, cold, or weak? This could be a subtle sign of reduced blood circulation to them due to cholesterol buildup in the body. Poor circulation is a major red flag for arterial blockages and should not be ignored.
According to 2017 study titled in Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis, 'asymptomatic advanced plaques are frequently observed in common iliac arteries, and are associated with generalized atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) events'.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) in men is commonly linked with aging or stress, but in some cases it can also be an early sign of narrowed arteries and poor blood flow— often due to high cholesterol. The small vessels in the penis are among the first to show signs of blockage.

A 2024 study in Frontiers in Endocrinology reads, 'The presence of Erectile dysfunction (ED) may precede the onset of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) by some years. Consequently, timely and dynamic evaluation of the cardiovascular status provides an earlier opportunity to identify and implement effective prevention strategies to promote cardiovascular health for ED patients."

Take care of these signs

Take note of these symptoms

Do not ignore these signs. If you notice these signs, it is important to talk to your doctor.

Take care of these signs

Exercise is one of the best ways to prevent heart attacks