Your Joints Could Reveal a Hereditary Heart Risk
Approximately 7.6 million people in the United Kingdom suffer from cardiovascular diseases, according to the British Heart Foundation. It is estimated that half of the population will develop heart problems during their lifetime.
The issue is that high blood pressure and elevated LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) often present no obvious symptoms, making early detection particularly difficult.
A Genetic Indicator Visible on the Body
In some cases, physical signs can indicate the presence of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), a genetic disorder affecting one in 250 people. This condition increases the risk of coronary heart disease up to 13 times compared to those without it.
Alarmingly, many affected individuals are unaware of their condition, despite the fact that early treatment can enable them to enjoy a normal lifespan, similar to those without FH.
How to Recognize FH?
Although symptoms are not always obvious, the British Heart Foundation highlights three key indicators that may suggest familial hypercholesterolemia:
- Yellowish growths around the eyes, particularly in the inner corners, known as xanthelasma. These result from cholesterol buildup.
- A thin, white ring around the iris (the colored part of the eye), called corneal arcus. If it appears at a young age, it is a stronger indicator of FH.
- Swelling in the joints and tendons, especially in the fingers, ankles, and Achilles tendon, known as tendon xanthomas. These appear as slow-growing, firm, and movable lumps under pressure, according to DermNet.
What Should You Do If You Suspect FH?
If you notice any of these signs, you should consult a doctor for a cholesterol test. If FH is suspected, you may be referred to a specialist for genetic testing.
The British Heart Foundation also advises seeing a doctor if you have a family history of heart disease, especially if a close relative suffered a heart attack before age 55 (men) or before age 65 (women).
Treatment typically involves cholesterol-lowering medications (statins) and lifestyle modifications, significantly reducing the risks. Experts emphasize that early diagnosis and treatment lead to better cardiovascular health outcomes.
