Skin's Painless Sign Could Indicate High Cholesterol: Doctor

"Xanthomas can also be a sign of other health issues," Dr. Hoenderkamp cautioned. "For instance, they could indicate that you have diabetes or pancreatitis." 
 
While xanthoma and xanthelasma are not harmful in themselves, their presence should prompt immediate medical attention due to the potential underlying causes. 
 
High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions. It can often go undetected until it's too late, since symptoms typically don't manifest until an individual suffers from a cardiac event like a heart attack or stroke. 
 
Dr. Hoenderkamp emphasized the importance of regular check-ups: "Everyone over the age of 40 should get their cholesterol levels checked every five years." She added that people with familial hypercholesterolaemia need to start getting tested much earlier given its genetic nature. 
 
The NHS advises maintaining healthy lifestyle habits as prevention against high cholesterol. These include eating healthily by limiting saturated fats in your diet and increasing fiber intake; exercising regularly—aim for at least 150 minutes per week; avoiding smoking; drinking alcohol only within recommended limits; losing weight if overweight or obese; and managing stress effectively. 
 
In some cases, where lifestyle changes aren't enough to control high cholesterol levels, medication may be necessary. Statins are usually prescribed as first-line treatment for those with very high LDL-cholesterol levels or who have previously suffered from cardiovascular diseases. 
 
However, these medicines come with potential side effects such as muscle pain; hence, doctors prefer initially recommending lifestyle modifications before turning to pharmaceutical interventions. 
 
According to estimates by Heart UK, The Cholesterol Charity, approximately six out of ten adults in England have raised total blood cholesterol concentrations (greater than 5 mmol/L). This statistic underscores the urgency for greater public awareness around this silent but deadly condition, which is largely preventable through proactive measures including regular screening and adopting healthier lifestyles. 
 
Being attuned to our body's subtle signals is indeed crucial. The skin, as the largest organ of our body, can provide insightful cues to our overall health condition. As Dr. Hoenderkamp has highlighted, painless lumps on the skin might indicate high cholesterol levels that warrant immediate medical attention. 
 
The key takeaway from this discussion is the importance of observing and understanding these physical signs and taking prompt action when necessary—a proactive approach that could undoubtedly save lives in the long run. 
 
In conclusion, remember to pay close attention to your body's messages, including those appearing on your skin. If you notice changes or abnormalities, such as yellowish-orange growths around your eye corners or elsewhere on your skin, consult with a healthcare professional without delay for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.