The term “silent killer” is frequently used to describe high cholesterol, and with good cause. It typically shows no obvious symptoms until significant damage has been done to your heart and blood vessels. At Windermere Medical Group, with clinics in Cumming, Canton, Gainesville, Habersham, and Alpharetta, GA, we understand how crucial early detection is when it comes to managing cholesterol levels and preventing long-term complications.
In this blog, we’ll uncover the symptoms of high cholesterol, explore how it may feel in your body, and answer commonly searched questions like “what are 10 warning signs of high cholesterol?” and “how does high cholesterol make you feel?”
Symptoms of High Cholesterol
You might assume high cholesterol causes obvious discomfort. In reality, it often builds up quietly inside your arteries. Over time, elevated levels—particularly of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or “bad cholesterol”—can cause fatty deposits to form in your arteries. These can reduce or block blood flow, leading to serious conditions like heart attacks or strokes.
Common high cholesterol symptoms may include:
- Chest pain (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Numbness in extremities
What Are 10 Warning Signs of High Cholesterol
If you’re wondering what are 10 warning signs of high cholesterol, here they are:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Xanthomas – yellowish fat deposits under the skin, especially around the eyes and joints
- Leg pain while walking (peripheral artery disease)
- Numbness in legs or arms
- Shortness of breath
- Slurred speech or confusion (possible sign of stroke)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Cold hands and feet
- Blurred vision
- Sudden heart attack without prior warning
Keep in mind, these signs often occur once cholesterol has already caused damage—screening is key.
Symptoms of High Cholesterol in Females
Hormonal changes, particularly after menopause, can cause cholesterol levels to rise in women. The symptoms of high cholesterol in females are unfortunately, often attributed to aging or stress.
Some common female-specific symptoms include:
Neck or jaw pain (rather than chest pain)
- Unexplained fatigue
- Nausea
- Cold sweats
- Dizziness
These subtle signs are why many women are diagnosed late—routine testing is essential.
Signs of High Cholesterol
Apart from symptoms, there are visible signs of high cholesterol that may indicate an underlying problem:
- Arcus senilis: gray or white rings around the cornea
- Xanthelasma: yellowish plaques near the eyelids
- Erectile dysfunction because of poor blood flow
- High blood pressure or signs of carotid artery disease
These signs may not always appear, but when they do, they’re worth discussing with your physician.
High LDL Cholesterol Symptoms
LDL is the “bad” cholesterol contributing most to arterial plaque. High LDL cholesterol symptoms typically show up later in life or after years of buildup. These may include:
- Tightness in the chest
- Pain in the legs from poor circulation
- Increased blood pressure
- Reduced tolerance to exercise
Managing LDL is the top priority in most treatment plans for high cholesterol.
Cholesterol Symptoms
Still wondering what cholesterol symptoms look or feel like? Here’s a quick recap:
- No symptoms at all in early stages
- Fatigue
- Numbness or tingling
- Vision changes
- Skin changes like yellow bumps (xanthomas)
Since symptoms are unreliable, only a blood lipid panel can give you an accurate diagnosis.
Signs of High Cholesterol in Females
While we’ve already covered symptoms, these signs of high cholesterol in females are often overlooked:
- Weakness or burning pain in the arms
- Trouble sleeping due to shortness of breath
- Headaches caused by poor circulation
- Unexplained anxiety or irritability (linked with cardiovascular strain)
Women over 45 or those with a family history should be especially proactive.
Side Effects of High Cholesterol
Untreated high cholesterol can lead to serious and irreversible health issues. Here are the side effects of high cholesterol:
- Atherosclerosis: narrowing and hardening of arteries
- Coronary artery disease
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Kidney disease
- Peripheral artery disease
Long-term high cholesterol doesn’t just affect the heart—it impacts your entire vascular system.
What Are the Symptoms of High Cholesterol
To directly answer what are the symptoms of high cholesterol are, here’s a simplified list:
- No symptoms in early stages
- Pain in chest or limbs
- Yellow fatty deposits under the skin
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or confusion
- Visual problems
- Breathlessness
Again, routine testing is the only way to know for sure.
How Does High Cholesterol Make You Feel
Many people ask, how does high cholesterol make you feel?—and the answer isn’t straightforward. Most people feel normal for years. However, if your arteries are narrowing:
- You might feel winded after small exertions
- You may experience brain fog
- You could feel constantly tired
- Some report a general sense of being “off” or unwell
It’s vague—but that’s what makes high cholesterol so dangerous.
What Does High Cholesterol Feel Like
To expand on that, here’s what high cholesterol feels like to many people:
- Your legs might ache after walking short distances
- You may feel cold in your hands and feet
- Some feel numbness or tingling in fingers or toes
But remember: cholesterol itself doesn’t cause pain—it’s the blockage that does.
Signs of Bad Cholesterol
The term “bad cholesterol” or LDL is sometimes referred to as VLDL. Here are the signs of bad cholesterol:
- LDL above 130 mg/dL (in most cases)
- HDL below 40 mg/dL (too low is also bad)
- Triglycerides above 150 mg/dL
- Yellow deposits near eyes, elbows, or knees
- Plaque buildup seen on imaging tests
A lipid panel can confirm these lab signs.
High HDL Cholesterol Symptoms
High HDL cholesterol symptoms are rare and can exist if HDL is very high (above 100mg/dL)
- Increased inflammation
- Possible oxidative stress
- Risk of insulin resistance
- Some studies link it to stroke in women
HDL is generally protective, but too much of a good thing can still pose risks.
When to See a Doctor at Windermere Medical Group
If you haven’t had your cholesterol tested in the past year—or ever—now is the time.
At Windermere Medical Group, we provide routine lipid screenings, lifestyle counseling, and cholesterol-lowering treatment in:
Book a consultation to know your numbers and protect your future heart health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
01. Can you feel if your cholesterol is high?
Usually not. Most people feel fine until complications arise. That’s why regular testing is essential.
02. What is dangerously high cholesterol?
Total cholesterol above 240 mg/dL or LDL above 160–190 mg/dL is considered high-risk.
03. Is high cholesterol always genetic?
No. While genetics (familial hypercholesterolemia) plays a role, diet and lifestyle are major contributors.
04. How often should I get my cholesterol checked?
Adults over 20 should test every 4–6 years; more frequently if you have risk factors.
05. Can high cholesterol cause headaches or tiredness?
Indirectly, yes. Poor blood flow can lead to fatigue, and some people report headaches.
Final Thoughts
High cholesterol rarely gives you a clear warning until it’s too late. But now that you understand the symptoms of high cholesterol, you can take proactive steps to protect your health. If you’re in Cumming, Canton, Gainesville, Habersham, or Alpharetta, GA, visit Windermere Medical Group for expert diagnosis and care.
