03/25/2026
Q: Can high cholesterol cause eye problems?
A: Sometimes, Yes. High cholesterol can affect your eyes and vision in several ways, from cosmetic deposits to severe, irreversible vision loss.
Ways High Cholesterol can affects your eyes:
1) Eye Stroke (Retinal Artery/Vein Occlusion): A blockage of blood flow to the retina, often causing sudden, painless vision loss. Example: Hollenhorst plaque: a tiny, bright, orange-yellow cholesterol crystal lodged in a retinal artery, typically discovered during a dilated eye exam. It is an embolus that breaks off from larger arteries (usually the carotid artery) and travels to the eye. While they often cause no symptoms, they serve as a critical warning sign of cardiovascular disease and an increased risk for stroke.
2) Corneal Arcus: A white, gray, or blue opaque ring that forms around the edge of the cornea. A corneal arcus (arcus senilis) does not cause injury to the eye, nor does it affect vision or cause discomfort. It is a harmless, age-related buildup of fat/lipid deposits in the cornea. While it doesn't harm the eye itself, in younger people, it may signal high cholesterol or other underlying health issues.
3) Xanthelasma: Yellowish fatty deposits that form under the skin on or around the eyelids. They are benign, cholesterol-filled deposits on the eyelids and are often a sign of high cholesterol or underlying cardiovascular issues, rather than a direct threat to eye function.
4) Increased Eye Disease Risk: High cholesterol is linked to a higher risk of developing glaucoma and macular degeneration.
What do I do with this information? Take action in the care of yourself: Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with us. In Washington: 636.239.7144 / Belle 573.859.6614.
