what is xanthomas?

Xanthomas is a  skin condition in which certain fats develop underneath the skin. It looks like the small blemished bumps on the skin are due to fat buildup under the skin. These bumps on the skin are not dangerous in themselves but they are in many cases a side effect of another medical issue like diabetes or high cholesterol.

What are the possible causes of Xanthomas?

Xanthomas are normal, among old people and those with high blood lipids that is fat.
You likely need testing to figure out the causes of the same. A few circumstances that lead to xanthomas can be dangerous and life-threatening if not treated. High cholesterol and triglycerides are a kind of blood lipid that can become the cause of Xanthomas.

If a person is dealing with any other severe health problem which may result in increased blood lipid levels can also be the reason for xanthomas.

Some of the health conditions that can become the reason for xanthomas eruption in the skin are:

1.    High cholesterol
2.    Diabetes
3.    familial hypercholesterolemia
4.    Metabolic disorders
5.    Liver cirrhosis
6.    Active thyroid
7.    Cancers
8.    Pancreatitis (swelling in the pancreas)

How it looks like and where on the body then tends to appear?

Xanthomas eruptions on the skin may vary from size to size. Some may be very small and some may be bigger than 3 inches in diameter. They may erupt on any part of the body even internally. The most common regions of the body can occur in our knees, hands, elbows, joints, buttocks, and feet.

They may also appear on the eyelids without any underlying medical condition. The type of xanthomas that appears on the eyelid is called Xanthelasma palpebra.

What are tests to go through?

If you notice this kind of eruption on any part of your body then go and see your doctor. Your doctor might suggest you go through various tests to make sure the main cause for it and to check that it is not cancerous.

You are also suggested to get your lipid profile done to know the cholesterol level in the blood.

The doctor might also suggest a few tests like; diabetes, liver test, thyroid test, etc.

How to treat them?

The doctor may use laser treatment and surgery to remove the xanthomas from your skin but there is a possibility that they might return after removal.
You are required to keep a check on your lipid levels and food intake first if you want to get rid of these bumps.

Can you get rid of xanthomas on your own?

You can make lifestyle changes and a few changes in your diet which can help in getting rid of these bumps naturally.

Firstly, you are required to understand the main reason for it, which is the high level of cholesterol in the blood. You need to control it first.

If you believe in Ayurvedic science you can opt for some remedies Ayurvedic science suggests curing Xanthomas naturally.

Some of them are:

Castor oil  - Ricinoleic acid of castor oil is very beneficial for the skin. Applying castor oil on the bumps can help in reducing their size by breaking down the unwanted deposit of fat over that area. Apply the castor oil on the bump using a cotton ball.

Garlic - Garlic works as a magical remedy for xanthomas. It is a very good source to control the cholesterol level in the blood. Upper lip bumps can be cured very fast using garlic.

You are required to crush down some cloves of garlic and make it into a paste. You have to apply the paste on the bumps. If in case it causes a burning sensation on the applied area you can also mix some castor oil with the paste and then apply it. Apply the paste and leave it for a maximum of 20 minutes on every application.

Fenugreek seeds - These seeds are blessed with amazing properties and help in reducing fatty deposits. It helps in breaking down lipid accumulation.

Onions - rich in sulphur onion helps in lowering the bad cholesterol level in the blood. Being acidic, it helps in breaking down the fat deposit and flattening the bumps.

Banana peels - Fresh banana peels rich in antioxidants helps in breaking down these fat deposits and reducing the size of xanthomas naturally.

You can also make some changes in your diet to deal with these fat deposits.

•    Add citrus fruits to your diet
•    Cut down on oily and fried food
•    Quit tobacco
•    Cut down on sugary items to control diabetes

There are several types of xanthoma, including xanthelasma, tuberous xanthoma, and eruptive xanthoma. The treatment of xanthoma depends on the type and location of the lesions, as well as the underlying cause. Treatment options may include dietary changes (as explained above), medications, or surgical removal of the lesions.

It is important to take medical advice if you notice any unusual bumps or changes in the appearance of your skin. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the progression of xanthoma.

Note : The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns about your health or are experiencing symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. They will be able to assess your specific situation and provide you with personalised advice and treatment based on your symptoms, body type, allergies (if any), existing medical conditions etc. It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health.