Toenail Trouble: The Surprising Link to Deadly Heart Risks

As of 2025-08-01T12:58:54+00:00, a concerning health issue has come to light - changes in toenails could signal a dangerous buildup of cholesterol in the legs. This warning sign suggests that individuals may be at heightened risk of experiencing heart attacks and strokes in the near future.

Elevated cholesterol levels, medically referred to as hypercholesterolaemia, indicate an excess of a fatty substance called cholesterol circulating in the bloodstream. While this condition may not trigger immediate problems, it can slowly increase the chances of numerous severe health complications over time. Cholesterol deposits can accumulate within arteries, restricting proper blood circulation, which constitutes a significant risk factor for heart disease - the primary cause of death, claiming approximately 18 million lives worldwide each year.

Alarmingly, high cholesterol typically displays no warning symptoms, earning it the reputation of a "silent killer". Most individuals remain unaware of their condition until they suffer a related health crisis or undergo a blood examination. However, various warning indicators exist that could prove life-saving when detected early, including the development of a condition called peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD represents a widespread condition where fatty deposit accumulation in arteries "restricts" blood flow to leg muscles, and it may cause noticeable changes to one's toenails, such as brittleness and slow growth.