High cholesterol could prove to be deadly and result in sudden death. In most cases of sudden cardiac arrest, arteries become clogged with cholesterol and other deposits that reduces blood flow to the heart. Leading a sedentary lifestyle, eating a lot of fatty food, not exercising, drinking or smoking could eventually lead to high cholesterol levels in your blood. People with chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are more at risk of having high cholesterol. (Also read: Simple daily habits to keep cholesterol in check)
High cholesterol generally doesn't show any symptoms but the levels can be monitored with a simple blood test. One can also find subtle signs of cholesterol on skin.
"In most people high cholesterol remains dormant and is not discovered till later in life in the form of blocked arteries. If you pay close attention to your health, you will see that nature gives you subtle signals that you can see on your skin for high cholesterol," says Dr. Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics.
Here is what to look out for:
A net like pattern on the skin that is blue or purple on the skin: This appears when the weather is chilly. It can be an indication of cholesterol embolization syndrome indicating blockage in your arteries.