When High Cholesterol Becomes Dangerous: Signs You Should See a Doctor

13. Frequent Dizziness or Lightheadedness

If you find yourself feeling dizzy or lightheaded more often than usual—especially when standing up quickly—it might be more than dehydration or skipped meals. Cholesterol buildup can narrow or block arteries that supply blood to the brain, leading to momentary drops in oxygen delivery. This can trigger spells of disorientation or imbalance. While these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, when paired with fatigue or shortness of breath, they could be an early warning sign of compromised circulation. Don’t brush it off as just “a moment.” Consistent lightheadedness deserves a closer look—and possibly a lipid panel.

14. Yellowish Patches on Eyelids (Xanthelasma)

Soft, yellowish plaques around the eyelids—called xanthelasma—might seem like a cosmetic issue, but they often point to elevated cholesterol levels. These fatty deposits are made up of cholesterol and can signal lipid metabolism disorders, especially in those with a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease. Xanthelasma can appear even when total cholesterol isn’t dramatically high, making it a surprisingly early skin-based clue. While not harmful in themselves, they are strongly linked to future cardiovascular risk. If you spot them, don’t just reach for concealer—reach out to your doctor for a full cholesterol screening.