October 14, 2025, 9:04 am | Read time: 3 minutes
High cholesterol levels can pose various health risks, including arteriosclerosis. Therefore, it’s important to identify unfavorable blood lipid levels early and take countermeasures to prevent serious consequences. Unfortunately, elevated cholesterol levels generally do not show symptoms. However, there is one possible sign—read more about it at FITBOOK.
What exactly are high cholesterol levels? In recent years, opinions on how high different cholesterol levels should be have changed frequently. Total cholesterol is known to consist mainly of HDL (high-density lipoproteins), LDL (low-density lipoproteins), and triglycerides. HDL is considered the “good” cholesterol, which can be somewhat higher, while LDL should be lower according to medical experts. Since it’s also about the interaction of these values, you should definitely leave the interpretation of your (blood) values to an expert. However, what you can do yourself is watch for possible signs that may indicate high cholesterol levels, also known as hypercholesterolemia, and then schedule a doctor’s appointment.
This Sign May Indicate High Cholesterol Levels
FITBOOK consulted Dr. Matthias Riedl, a specialist in internal medicine, among other fields. He explains that high cholesterol levels themselves do not show clear symptoms. “Rarely, only with extremely high levels, can xanthelasmas form on the skin,” says the expert, “which are small, yellowish growths.” They resemble small pimples and usually appear around the eyes. Medically, they are benign tumors made of connective tissue cells in which fat droplets are stored.
Only a blood test provides clarity. Cholesterol tests are recommended for adults every four to six years.1 For people with a family history of health issues or existing risk factors (such as type 2 diabetes), more frequent monitoring is advised.
Symptoms of Long-Term Elevated Levels
If someone has had elevated cholesterol levels for years, their blood vessels may already be narrowed. This can lead to the following symptoms:2
- Tightness in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
- Consciousness disturbances
- Pain in the legs
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Even if you suspect high cholesterol levels, it may be wise to change your diet. Saturated fats cause the liver to produce more “bad” LDL cholesterol. These and trans fats, found in processed meats and high-fat dairy products, should be avoided. Instead, focus on healthier unsaturated fatty acids (such as those from plant oils, fatty fish, and nuts) and fiber. If your suspicion is confirmed and your doctor finds elevated cholesterol levels in your blood, medication may also be necessary.
Consequences of Hypercholesterolemia
Because elevated cholesterol levels often remain without specific symptoms for a long time, many people underestimate them. However, the consequences of hypercholesterolemia can be severe—especially when additional risk factors such as increasing age, smoking, high blood pressure, or diabetes mellitus are present.
In the long term, elevated cholesterol levels can lead to potentially life-threatening secondary diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease (PAD).3