Cholesterol Deposits on Eyelids

Cholesterol has not been a very kind word, and usually brings along panic and alarm for obesity. Apart from obesity with bulging waistlines, double chins and flabby arms and skin, cholesterol has also been active on other areas of the body. And it may interest you to know that cholesterol may also get stored on the eyelids and nearby area.

Many people have noticed cholesterol deposits on their eyelids. What exactly are they and what do they look like? A common name for such deposits under eyes and over the eyelids, is 'Xanthelasma'.

The deposits are yellow to white in color and may look like bumps. They may also be flat shaped and may be soft to touch. Usually they are pain free deposits of cholesterol. Apart from the eyes, they can be found on the elbows, knees, soles and palms too. These deposits can be felt when you touch the skin and also can be inspected visually.

These may look like acne, but unlike acne you cannot prick or squeeze them. There is no pus as such that will come out. This was about deposits of cholesterol on the eyelids and what they look like. Let us get to know the causes, symptoms, and treatment for these deposits.

These acne like deposits, are an unpleasant site at times, especially when they are formed in groups. A major cause for these deposits is linked to excess cholesterol in the body. But there are many other reasons that can cause this condition.

• High levels of LDL cholesterol and triglyceride can trigger cholesterol deposits on the eyelids, to be specific on the blood vessels in the eyelids, just like it would on blood vessels in other parts of the body.
• Research has also concluded that, these could be an indication of other underlying issues that can be caused by high cholesterol.

• There is a genetic cause too behind these fat deposits on one's eyelids. This is known as hypercholesterolemia, where the condition is passed down through generations in the family.
• This condition is also known to be caused with age. So as you age, these may naturally occur, without any underlying cause.

• Xanthomas can also be associated with metabolism disorders of the lipids. A proper medical examination should be able to confirm this.

Generally the only sign that one will see is the flat or bumpy deposits of waxy yellowish liquid on the eyelids, and even under the eye. With no other symptoms of pain as such, the diagnostic process is a simple visual examination of the deposits.

After which a blood test can be advised to check the cholesterol levels. A genetic examination can also be advised in certain cases to check if the cause is hereditary.

The treatment of cholesterol deposits on eyelids usually depends on the cause. For example, if the cause is high cholesterol in the blood, the treatment will be focused on improving the cholesterol level to a healthy one, this may include medication also. The doctor may also consider other treatment options like topical medication to treat it.

Some people also opt for cosmetic surgery and similar options, however, without any proper treatment the deposits are bound to come back. Most of the time, medication will only come in the picture if a diet fails to improve and lower cholesterol in the blood.

The treatment for this, should be taken seriously, as in extreme cases, the blood vessels can become blocked and cause serious harm to the eye and surrounding area. So take care of your health and follow a healthy diet.

Avoiding foods that will increase the lipids and fats in the blood will help a lot in curing these fatty deposits on the eye. So stay wise and take care!