High cholesterol 'feeling' in foot which could even lead to amputation

High cholesterol refers to an excess of a waxy substance in your blood. This can lead to serious complications such as heart attacks and peripheral artery disease (PAD) when these deposits block the arteries.

Although the build-up of cholesterol itself doesn't typically present symptoms, the associated complications do. PAD, for instance, which is caused by narrowing arteries due to cholesterol build-up, can manifest signs in the feet.

The vascular charity Circular Foundation has highlighted one particular sensation that could indicate a risk of foot amputation. The charity explains: "In some people, the disease progresses and the amount of blood able to go down the leg is not enough to supply the nutrients and oxygen to their feet."

"In cases like this, the individual will get pain in their feet even when they're not moving." Without sufficient nutrients and oxygen reaching the foot, the skin cannot function properly and may develop into an ulcer. "If an individual has rest pain or skin breakdown they are at risk of losing their foot or leg by amputation."

Other signs of PAD include:

• Hair loss on your legs and feet
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Brittle, slow-growing toenails
• Ulcers (open sores) on your feet and legs, which do not heal
• Changing skin colour on your legs, such as turning pale or blue
• Shiny skin
• In men, erectile dysfunction

How to reduce your risk The key to preventing complications from high cholesterol is to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The first step is to get tested for high cholesterol. As high cholesterol does not cause symptoms, it can only be detected through a blood test.

"Your GP might suggest having a test if they think your cholesterol level could be high," the NHS advises. If you're over 40, overweight, or have a family history of high cholesterol or heart problems, it's recommended to ask for a cholesterol test at your GP surgery.

There are two ways to get tested: either through a blood test or other medical evaluations. Should your results show high cholesterol, lifestyle changes will likely be suggested to help manage it.

Diet plays a significant role in controlling cholesterol levels and maintaining heart health. Heart UK, a cholesterol charity, suggests that a healthy balance of fats is crucial for lowering cholesterol.

"Too much saturated fat will raise your cholesterol. Cut down on foods high in saturated fat and replace them with foods higher in unsaturated fat," Heart UK recommends. Saturated fats, typically solid at room temperature, are found mostly in animal products and coconut-based items.