Health specialists are urging people to look out for an uncommon marker on your hands that could be a warning sign of a serious health issue. Specifically, petite nodules near the knuckles might indicate raised cholesterol levels, also known as hypercholesterolemia.
Hypercholesterolemia means you have excessive amounts of cholesterol in your bloodstream. Although some cholesterol is needed by the body to function properly, having too much poses health risks.
This is because it may accumulate in blood vessels, potentially causing blockages and hardening the vessel walls, which significantly amplifies your chances of experiencing heart attacks and strokes. It’s estimated that around two in five people in the UK have high cholesterol, yet many remain unaware due to its typically asymptomatic nature.
People often become conscious of their condition either after blood tests or encountering a related health complication. The British Heart Foundation (BHF) experts elucidate: “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.”
Nonetheless, certain indicators of high cholesterol might manifest on the knuckles, known medically as tendon xanthomata – cholesterol-filled swellings that form on the knuckles of your hands. According to the BHF, such symptoms may also appear on your knees or the Achilles tendon at the back of your ankle, particularly if you suffer from familial hypercholesterolemia – a genetically caused high cholesterol condition.
The Family Heart Foundation delves further, 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.”
Additionally, “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 sign to look out for are small yellow bumps around the eyes, known as xanthelasmas, which can be indicative of familial hypercholesterolemia. It’s advised that anyone who observes these symptoms should consult their doctor.
In terms of managing high cholesterol levels, the NHS suggests adopting a healthy balanced diet low in saturated fats, increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and cutting down on alcohol consumption.