Xanthelasma Cholesterol Symptoms: Our bodies signal a disease or an imminent illness in various ways. Let us explain how heart disease can be detected by the skin.

Skin changes and heart disease

Early Skin Symptoms Heart Problems: Sometimes the skin senses things that the heart itself doesn't acknowledge. Surprisingly, the body often warns us in advance through small changes in color, texture, or swelling. Sometimes, even when major symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath are still far away. Skin experts have long been saying that the skin often acts as an early alert system for health. The American Academy of Dermatology also mentions some such signs that may point to underlying cardiovascular problems. These symptoms are not a surefire proof of heart disease in themselves, but they definitely indicate that something is not working properly somewhere inside.

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swelling in the legs and lower back

When the heart can't pump at its full capacity, fluids aren't able to circulate evenly throughout the body and begin to accumulate. This is why swelling first appears in the feet and ankles and can gradually spread upward. This isn't just swelling from fatigue or prolonged standing, but can be a sign of a heart that's struggling to function.

cyanosis

It's common for fingers or toes to turn blue in the winter, but if the skin appears blue or purple even at normal temperatures, it means that the tissues aren't getting enough oxygen. Often, the cause is blocked or narrowed blood vessels. In severe cases, such as blue toe syndrome, this condition can even cause tissue damage. Ignoring such color changes can be dangerous.

Livedo reticularis 

Some people experience this pattern when exposed to cold and may be due to medication. However, if this pattern persists even in the heat, it could be due to blockage in small arteries. In cases like cholesterol embolization syndrome, small particles of cholesterol block blood flow, which can affect the skin and internal organs. Therefore, if this pattern persists, it should be checked.

Xanthelasma and Xanthoma 

Yellow patches around the eyes, or yellowness on the palms or feet, are not just a visual issue. They are often a sign of high cholesterol levels. They don't cause pain, but they indicate that the body is struggling to handle excess cholesterol. Testing is essential, as timely treatment can reduce the risk of heart disease. If necessary, they can also be removed dermatologically. 

Eruptive Xanthoma

These rashes often resemble a rash or infection, but they are actually fat deposits on the skin's surface caused by extremely high triglyceride levels. Uncontrolled diabetes or serious lipid disorders can cause triglycerides to suddenly rise, leading to a rash. Timely treatment is crucial, as such high levels pose risks to both the heart and pancreas.

Clubbing 

The tips of the fingers change shape, becoming soft and rounded, and the nails begin to bend downward. Sometimes this is harmless, but the clubbing associated with the disease often reflects a chronic lack of oxygen in the body. 

Splinter hemorrhage

Most of the time, these lines are caused by a minor injury, like a brush or a nail. However, if these lines appear without any injury and are accompanied by symptoms like fever or uncontrolled heartbeat, they could be a sign of an underlying infection, especially endocarditis.