Signs in the legs warn of high cholesterol

About 25 million Americans are faced with high cholesterol, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. 4 out of 10 people do not know they have the disease at all because they do not have a blood test. Doctors are raising awareness of the disease’s symptoms in everyday life. According to the CDC, the most common symptoms are dull leg pain when moving, numbness of the toes, and loss of pulse in the legs.

Cholesterol is a waxy fat necessary for the body to function. However, when cholesterol levels are high, sticky molecules can build up in blood vessels, restricting blood flow. People with high cholesterol sometimes develop peripheral artery disease (PAD), when small blood vessels in the legs or arms become clogged. Within 5 years of being diagnosed with PAD, 20% of people have a heart attack or stroke. The most common sign, affecting up to 60% of people with PAD, is pain, cramping or aching in the arms and legs when moving, exercising, or resting.

In addition to pain when walking, other signs of PAD include muscle weakness, hair loss, shiny skin, cold hands and feet, decreased or absent pulse in the feet, and slow-healing wounds.

People who smoke, have high blood pressure, diabetes or are obese are all at higher risk of PAD. After age 60, the chance of developing PAD increases. In the five years after a PAD diagnosis, about one-third of patients will die, and 20% will have a heart attack or stroke, according to the Mayo Clinic. If undiagnosed, people with PAD are at higher risk of limb loss, because loss of circulation can cause tissue to die, according to the American Heart Association.

Dr. Amy Pollak, a cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic, said it’s important to specifically report symptoms when going to the doctor.

Comedian Howie Mandel, 68, opened up about his battle with high cholesterol, hoping to raise awareness of the condition. Like many people, he initially ignored his doctor’s warnings. He is now aware of how dangerous it is and advises people to control their condition with medication and diet.

“Bad cholesterol progresses very quickly. So you can’t say ‘It’s going to be a long time before I get heart disease’. The disease could be just a few seconds away,” he said.

High cholesterol is extremely common, and can be caused by genetics or diet and exercise. Eating foods high in animal fats, such as red meat, dairy and fried foods, can increase bad cholesterol levels. Over time, fat levels will affect the body.