2 Concerning Signs Your Cholesterol Levels Might Be Too High, According To An Expert

1. Brain fog and low energy

When LDL (bad) cholesterol levels are too high, it can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries—a condition known as atherosclerosis. This buildup narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow and limiting how much oxygen and nutrients reach your brain and muscles. The result? You may start to feel mentally sluggish, have trouble concentrating, or experience fatigue even after a full night’s sleep.

“If you’re constantly feeling tired or finding it hard to focus, your cholesterol could be restricting blood flow to your brain, which is affecting your oxygen supply,” she says.

2. Leg pain or numbness

When this symptom happens in the arteries that supply your legs, it’s known as peripheral artery disease (PAD). One of the early symptoms of PAD is leg discomfort, cramping, or numbness—typically felt during movement and relieved by rest.

“Poor circulation caused by cholesterol buildup can lead to pain, numbness, or a heavy feeling in your legs, especially when walking,” she adds.

Sheina warns that high cholesterol levels are a “silent killer,” and you should not wait for possible heart attacks in order to take action.