High cholesterol often occurs as a result of consuming a diet high in fat. As well, some people may also have high cholesterol that stems from hereditary factors. However, no matter the cause for high levels of cholesterol, this condition can increase your risk for serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease. You may have a good understanding of the effects of cholesterol on your general health, but many people do not realize cholesterol may also impact your eyes.
Arcus
If you have high cholesterol, this could result in an arcus, a light-colored circle that seems to surround your iris. The arcus stems from fatty deposits building up at the edge of the cornea, the clear, dome-like tissue that covers the front of your eye. In addition to a cholesterol-related arcus, the white circle may also appear as a part of the aging process and not have any connection to high cholesterol. If your doctor notes an arcus, she will most likely test your cholesterol levels. Once you have an arcus, the ring will remain since doctors do not have a treatment to reverse the condition.
Xanthelasma
A xanthelasma, also known as a xanthoma, is a fatty deposit under the skin, sometimes found on the eyelids. The deposits result in a slightly raised, yellow bump that does not result in any discomfort or other symptoms. Not every xanthelasma stems from high cholesterol, but the appearance may offer a warning to check your cholesterol levels. The bumps do not require treatment, but some people elect to have the xanthelasmas surgically removed for cosmetic reasons.
Retinal Vessel Occlusion
High cholesterol could increase your risk for occlusions in the blood vessels that lead into and away from the retina, the tissue that lines the back of your eye. The retina contains cells that transmit visual information, and a blockage that prevents blood flow could damage these cells, leading to vision changes. This condition may occur if a piece of plaque breaks free from the walls of a retinal blood vessel and restricts or completely blocks blood flow. The plaque may result from the build-up of blood cholesterol. After a retinal vessel occlusion some people experience permanent loss of vision in the affected eye, but some people may have full or partial recovery of vision. If you notice any changes in your visual acuity, contact your doctor for a prompt evaluation.
Considerations
High cholesterol does not always cause eye-related conditions. However, if you have high cholesterol, or risk factors for developing high levels, talk with your doctor about the ways you can protect your eyes and general health. To reduce your risk for health conditions related to cholesterol, your doctor may recommend a low-fat diet and adding physical activity to your day.
References
- MayoClinic.com; High Cholesterol; June 2010
- Columbia University: Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute: Corneal Arcus
- "Eyelid, Conjunctival, and Orbital Tumors"; Jerry A. Sheilds and Carol L. Shields; 2008
- MedlinePlus; Xanthoma; August 2009
- Science Daily; High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol May Be Associated with Retinal Vascular Disease; May 2008
- MedlinePlus; Retinal Vein Occlusion; May 2010
