Signs of High Cholesterol That Only Appear While Walking, Important to Understand

Kapanlagi.com - High cholesterol, or what is known as hypercholesterolemia, is often referred to as the "silent killer." Why is that? Because this condition often does not show clear symptoms. However, there are several warning signs that can appear, especially when the body is active, such as when walking.

When cholesterol levels in the blood soar, blood vessels can narrow, limiting blood flow and causing various symptoms that only occur when we move. One condition closely related to high cholesterol is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). In PAD, the buildup of cholesterol plaque in the arteries disrupts blood flow to certain parts of the body, especially in the legs.

Although walking should be a healthy activity, for those with high cholesterol, this activity can cause pain and discomfort. The symptoms can vary, from leg pain to suspicious skin color changes. Knowing these symptoms is very important to prevent more serious complications later. So, be cautious and take care of your health!

1. Pain in the Legs and Calves When Walking

One of the early signs of high cholesterol that should be watched for while walking is the onset of pain or cramps in the leg area, such as the calves, thighs, or buttocks. This symptom is often related to peripheral artery disease (PAD), which occurs due to the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries, thereby obstructing blood flow and reducing the oxygen supply to the muscles. When you are active, such as walking, your muscles require more oxygen, but if the arteries cannot meet that demand, pain will occur. Initially, this pain may only be felt after walking a certain distance, but over time, the pain can interfere even when you are resting. So, if you often experience pain while walking, it is very important to have your cholesterol levels checked for long-term health!

2. Tingling and Numbness in the Legs

One of the symptoms that often disrupts is tingling or numbness in the feet. When we engage in physical activity, nerves require a blood supply rich in oxygen to function optimally. However, if cholesterol obstructs blood flow in the arteries, the nerves become deprived of oxygen, triggering the sensation of tingling, especially in the toes. If this tingling only occurs while walking, do not underestimate it, as it can develop into a more serious problem if left untreated. If you experience prolonged tingling or numbness, consult a doctor immediately to prevent the risk of more serious complications, such as nerve damage or gangrene.

3. Muscle Cramps That Occur When Walking

In addition to causing pain, muscle cramps in the legs or arms can also be a warning signal of high cholesterol lurking. These cramps occur when the blood supply needed by active muscles is insufficient. As you step, muscles require oxygen and nutrients from the blood to function optimally, but the narrowing of blood vessels due to cholesterol buildup hinders this vital process. This symptom often feels more intense when you walk long distances or climb stairs, and if left untreated, the pain can occur even while you are resting. Recognizing these signs early is crucial to prevent more serious health issues in the future.

4. Cold or Cooler Feet

When you walk and feel that your feet are colder than other parts of your body, don't take it lightly! This could be a sign of high cholesterol disrupting blood flow due to narrowed arteries, causing your body temperature to not be well regulated. This cold sensation often appears after physical activity and can be a signal that your cholesterol has caused more serious artery blockages. If the cold feeling persists or worsens, be cautious! This may be a sign of peripheral artery disease that has reached an advanced stage. Get a medical check-up promptly to maintain your health and avoid bigger problems.

5. Suspicious Color Changes in Feet

High cholesterol can trigger noticeable changes in the color of your feet, which may appear brighter or even bluish-purple. This occurs because the oxygen-rich blood flow to the skin is reduced due to narrowed arteries. When blood flow is obstructed, the skin in that area will show color changes that could indicate serious issues, such as critical ischemia, which requires immediate medical attention. If you notice significant color changes in your feet or legs, especially if accompanied by pain or numbness, do not hesitate to consult a doctor for further examination.

6. Questions and Answers About High Cholesterol While Walking:

Q1: What causes high cholesterol symptoms to appear only when walking?

A1: High cholesterol symptoms occur while walking because physical activity increases the oxygen demand by the muscles, while arteries clogged due to cholesterol buildup cannot meet that demand. This leads to pain, tingling, or cramps in the legs.

Q2: What should be done if experiencing pain or cramps while walking?

A2: If you experience recurring pain or cramps while walking, you should immediately get a cholesterol check and consult with a doctor. This could be a sign of artery narrowing or heart disease that requires medical attention.

Q3: How can high cholesterol be prevented?

A3: To prevent high cholesterol, you can maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and manage stress. Regular cholesterol level checks are also important for early detection.

(kpl/mni)