Experts are warning that a painful sensation in the leg could be an early sign of high cholesterol, a condition that increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolaemia, occurs when there is an excess of cholesterol in the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden, which restricts blood flow.
According to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), plaques that clog arteries take a long time to build up, so many people may not experience symptoms for years. However, once the plaque becomes large enough, the artery can become so narrow that insufficient oxygen-rich blood can pass through, leading to pain or discomfort, particularly during exercise.
The BHF notes that if cholesterol is causing leg arteries to become clogged, individuals may feel leg pain, a condition known as claudication, which is indicative of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The NHS describes PAD as a common condition that can cause a painful ache in the legs when walking, which usually disappears after a few minutes' rest.
Additional symptoms of PAD may include hair loss on the legs, numbness or weakness in the legs, brittle toenails, ulcers on the feet or legs that do not heal, and a change in skin colour, such as paleness or blueness. The NHS warns that if symptoms develop quickly or suddenly worsen, it could be a sign of a serious problem requiring immediate treatment.
Both high cholesterol and PAD carry the risk of blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. The BHF explains that the biggest risk is if the plaque ruptures and a blood clot forms around it, blocking the artery. If this occurs in the coronary arteries, it causes a heart attack; if it happens in an artery supplying blood to the brain, it leads to a stroke.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of PAD or concerned about their cholesterol levels should speak to their GP.
