You may not realise you could be living with the condition
An unusual change to your toenails could be a warning sign of a “silent killer” condition. This particular symptom might indicate you have high cholesterol, significantly raising your chances of suffering heart attacks and strokes.
High cholesterol occurs when there is too much of a fatty substance called cholesterol circulating in your bloodstream. It is also one of the primary risk factors for heart disease, which continues to be the number one cause of death worldwide, claiming approximately 18 million lives each year.
High cholesterol typically presents no warning signs, earning its reputation as a “silent killer”. Most people have no idea they have it until they suffer a related health crisis or undergo blood tests.
The NHS states: “High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. You can only find out if you have it from a blood test.”
Nevertheless, there are several warning signs that could prove life-saving if identified early. One of these is the development of a condition called peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
The NHS explains that PAD is a common condition in which a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries “restricts” blood flow to the leg muscles. Whilst PAD may not always cause obvious symptoms, it can lead to noticeable changes in your toenails.
The NHS identifies “brittle, slow-growing toenails” as a potential indicator of the condition. Other 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 adds. A sudden increase or worsening of symptoms could be a sign of a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
One common symptom of PAD is pain experienced during walking. The NHS explains that some people may experience a “painful” ache in their legs while walking, which usually eases after resting for a few minutes.
The NHS states: “The pain can range from mild to severe, and usually goes away after a few minutes when you rest your legs.” It’s typical for both legs to be affected at the same time, although one leg may suffer more intense discomfort. Other symptoms associated with PAD include:
- Loss of hair on your legs
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Non-healing ulcers (open sores) on your legs
- Changes in skin colour on your legs, such as becoming paler or blue, which may be less visible on brown and black skin
- Shiny skin
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- Muscle wasting in the legs
Having PAD also heightens the risk of coronary heart disease, the primary cause of death from cardiovascular diseases in the UK. To lower cholesterol levels, the NHS recommends:.
- Cutting down on fatty foods
- Maintaining a balanced diet
- Increasing physical activity
- Giving up smoking
- Limiting alcohol intake
If you have concerns about your cholesterol levels, it’s advisable to speak with your GP.