Your face and head can reveal more about your health than you might expect, particularly concerning your heart. While some signs may be easy to overlook, being mindful of specific features can help detect potential heart issues before they become serious. Here are some facial and head-related clues that could signal you need to prioritize your heart health.

Cholesterol Deposits Around the Eyelids

One of the most telling signs of potential heart trouble is the appearance of yellowish cholesterol deposits around your eyelids, known as xanthelasma. These deposits consist of natural fats, including cholesterol, and signal an abnormal lipid level in the blood, a condition called dyslipidemia. This disorder significantly raises the risk of cholesterol accumulating on the walls of your arteries, which could restrict blood flow to vital organs, including the heart.

In some cases, these cholesterol deposits may occur alongside a condition called corneal arcus, where cholesterol forms a hazy white, grey, or blue ring around the outer edge of the cornea.

Puffy or Swollen Face

A puffy or swollen face, particularly around the eyes, might indicate underlying heart problems. While puffiness can be caused by various factors such as allergies or lack of sleep, persistent facial swelling could suggest your heart is struggling to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid retention in the tissues.

This condition, known as edema, happens when the heart fails to pump blood efficiently, causing fluid to build up in different parts of the body, including the face and lower limbs. If you notice unexplained or persistent puffiness in your face, especially if it’s accompanied by swelling in your legs or ankles, it may be time to consult with a healthcare provider.

Receding Hairline and Bald Spots

Hair loss, such as a receding hairline or bald patches on the crown of the head, may indicate more than just a cosmetic issue. Several studies have pointed to a strong link between male-pattern baldness and a higher risk of heart disease, particularly in men with other risk factors like high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol.

Earlobe Creases

Another subtle sign of potential heart issues is the presence of a diagonal crease on your earlobe, often referred to as “Frank’s sign.” Research has shown a notable correlation between earlobe creases and coronary artery disease (CAD). In a study involving 340 patients, the presence of an earlobe crease was associated with more severe heart disease in those experiencing symptoms.

These signs don’t guarantee that you have heart disease, but they can serve as early warnings that something may be wrong with your cardiovascular health. If you spot any of these signs, it’s wise to seek advice from a healthcare professional, who can conduct further tests and recommend preventive steps. “In rare instances, warning signs can manifest months before a heart attack,” note scientists studying the connection between facial features and heart issues.