Health Desk. Cholesterol is essential for our body, but when its level increases it can become a threat to health. Increased cholesterol has a direct impact on the heart and blood vessels. Often people ignore its signs, but the body itself warns in time.

1. Chest pain or heaviness

If you feel slight or sometimes sudden chest pressure or pain, it may be a sign of high cholesterol. This is especially dangerous when the pain spreads to the shoulder, arm, or back.

2. Cold hands and feet or numbness

Increased cholesterol affects blood flow. Due to this, hands and feet often remain cold or numbness may be felt in them. This sign indicates that blockage in the blood vessels is increasing.

3. Hives or yellow bumps on the skin

Some people notice small yellow lumps or spots around the eyes or on the elbows and knees. These are called ‘xanthomas’ and are a sign that LDL (bad) cholesterol is increased in the body.

4. Fatigue and weakness

High cholesterol causes the heart to have trouble pumping enough blood. As a result, symptoms like fatigue, weakness or breathlessness may appear in the body.

5. Memory and brain problems

Excessive levels of cholesterol can affect blood flow to the brain. Due to this, signs like amnesia or mental imbalance start appearing.