High Cholesterol Symptoms: What to Watch For

High cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) is often silent. Visible signs usually appear only with very high levels or complications:

• Xanthelasma – yellowish cholesterol deposits on eyelids.
• Corneal arcus (arcus senilis) – white/gray ring around cornea.
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD) – leg pain, numbness, weakness with walking (claudication).
• Carotid artery disease – dizziness, transient weakness, stroke symptoms.
• Coronary artery disease – chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue.
• Stroke signs – sudden unilateral weakness, speech difficulty, confusion.

Because symptoms are late, screening via lipid panel is crucial. Adults ≥20 should be tested every 4–6 years; more often if risk factors exist (family history, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, obesity). Management includes diet, exercise, weight control, and statins or other lipid-lowering drugs when indicated.