High cholesterol is a common condition that can have serious consequences if left untreated, including an increased risk of heart disease. One of the symptoms may impact your knees
High cholesterol is a silent threat to heart health, often showing no symptoms and leading to serious conditions like heart disease or stroke if left unchecked.
Certain individuals are more susceptible to high cholesterol, including men, those over 50, and people of South Asian or sub-Saharan African descent.
Lifestyle factors such as consuming fatty foods, being overweight, smoking, and alcohol consumption can also contribute to high cholesterol levels.
Familial hypercholesterolaemia, a genetic condition where the liver fails to properly process cholesterol, resulting in elevated blood cholesterol levels, can also be a cause.
Those with familial hypercholesterolaemia may notice certain symptoms, one of which affects the knees. Tendon xanthomata, swellings composed of cholesterol, can form on your knees, knuckles, or Achilles tendon.
Other signs include small, yellow cholesterol deposits near the inner corner of your eye, known as xanthelasmas, or a pale, white ring around your iris, referred to as corneal arcus, reports Surrey Live.
It’s crucial to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly, either at your GP surgery or some pharmacies. The NHS recommends requesting a test from your GP if you’re over 40, overweight, or have a family history of high cholesterol or heart problems and haven’t had a test before.
To keep your cholesterol levels in check, the British Heart Foundation suggests being more active. They explain that physical activity helps shift bad cholesterol to your liver, where it can be expelled from your body.
But don’t worry, you won’t need to start training for a marathon. Simple activities like taking the stairs, practising yoga or Pilates, or going for a brisk walk can make a significant difference.
According to the BHF, one of the “best things” you can do for your cholesterol and overall health is to quit smoking. They assure that within days your health will start to improve, “and within a year, your risk of heart disease will be halved”.
Your diet also plays a crucial role in managing cholesterol levels. You should aim to reduce your intake of foods such as meat pies, sausages, butter, cream, hard cheese, cakes, biscuits, and anything containing coconut oil or palm oil.
The NHS recommends incorporating more oily fish, olive oil, brown bread, wholegrain bread, whole-wheat pasta, nuts and seeds, and fruits and vegetables into your diet.
It’s also vital to moderate your alcohol consumption, according to the NHS. They advise not exceeding 14 units of alcohol per week and avoiding binge drinking.
If you’re struggling to cut down, your GP can provide helpful advice.