Health experts are sounding the alarm over a lesser-known indicator on your hands that could signal a serious health concern. Small lumps near the knuckles may be a tell-tale sign of elevated cholesterol levels, a condition medically referred to as hypercholesterolemia.
Hypercholesterolemia is characterised by an excessive presence of cholesterol in the bloodstream. While the body requires a certain amount of cholesterol, too much can lead to serious health implications.
Excess cholesterol can accumulate within blood vessels, leading to obstructions and the hardening of arterial walls, thereby greatly increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It’s believed that approximately two out of every five individuals in the UK suffer from high cholesterol, with many remaining oblivious due to the condition’s typically symptomless nature.
People often don’t find out they have high cholesterol levels until they have a blood test or suffer a health issue connected to the condition. Specialists from the British Heart Foundation (BHF) explain: “There are usually no symptoms of high cholesterol. But if left untreated, it can lead to heart attack and stroke. It’s often a hidden risk factor which means it can happen without us knowing until it’s too late. That is why it’s so important to get your cholesterol level checked.”
However, as reported by GloucestershireLive, certain signs of high cholesterol can appear on your knuckles – a condition known medically as tendon xanthomata. These are swellings filled with cholesterol that form on the knuckles of your hands.
According to the BHF, these symptoms can also appear on your knees or the Achilles tendon at the back of your ankle, especially if you have familial hypercholesterolemia – an inherited condition that causes high cholesterol The Family Heart Foundation goes into more detail, explaining: “Bumps or lumps around the knuckles, elbows, and knees, called ‘xanthomas’. These are formed when excess cholesterol deposits on tendons or under the skin. They may be noticed by a dermatologist.”
In addition: “Thickened and sometimes painful Achilles tendons (‘tendon xanthomas’). Excess cholesterol may deposit in the tendons, which makes them enlarged and may cause pain when wearing shoes.”
Another symptom to watch out for is small yellow bumps around the eyes, known as xanthelasmas. These can indicate familial hypercholesterolemia.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s recommended that you see your doctor. To manage high cholesterol levels, the NHS advises eating a healthy balanced diet low in saturated fats, doing more physical activity, stopping smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption.