Disease
Hyperlipidemia
Overview of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia is also known as dyslipidemia and refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats), such as cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It is a common condition that increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. The condition may be asymptomatic for years but can lead to serious complications if left unmanaged.
Types of Hyperlipidemia
- Primary (Genetic) Hyperlipidemia: Inherited conditions causing abnormal lipid levels.
- Secondary Hyperlipidemia: Caused by lifestyle factors or underlying conditions such as obesity, diabetes or hypothyroidism.
- Hypercholesterolemia: Elevated cholesterol levels, specifically LDL (low-density lipoprotein) also known as (bad cholesterol).
- Hypertriglyceridemia: High levels of triglycerides in the blood.
- Mixed Hyperlipidemia: A combination of elevated cholesterol and triglycerides.
Symptoms of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia is often asymptomatic, meaning most people do not experience noticeable signs. However, in severe cases the following symptoms may appear:
- Xanthomas (fatty deposits under the skin).
- Xanthelasmas (yellowish cholesterol deposits on the eyelids).
- Corneal arcus (white or gray ring around the cornea).
- Eruptive skin lesions (small, red-yellow bumps).
- Chest pain (due to plaque buildup in arteries).
Causes of Hyperlipidemia
- Unhealthy diet (high in saturated and trans fats).
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Diabetes mellitus.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Liver or kidney disease.
- Certain medications (steroids, diuretics and beta-blockers).
Complications in Hyperlipidemia
- Atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup)
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Heart attack (Myocardial infarction)
- Stroke
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
- Pancreatitis (in cases of extremely high triglycerides)
Risk Factors of Hyperlipidemia
- Family history of hyperlipidemia.
- Age (risk increases with age).
- Poor diet (high in cholesterol and saturated fats).
- Smoking (damages blood vessels and lowers HDL cholesterol).
- Lack of physical activity.
- Diabetes and hypertension.
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
Preventions of Hyperlipidemia
- Adopt a heart healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats.
- Engage in regular exercise (at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days).
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
- Regular health check-ups to monitor lipid levels.
Diagnosis of Hyperlipidemia
- Lipid Panel (Lipid Profile): A blood test measuring:
- Total cholesterol
- LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol)
- HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol)
- Triglycerides
- Genetic Testing (for hereditary hyperlipidemia)
- Other Blood Tests (to rule out secondary causes like diabetes or thyroid disorders)
Treatments of Hyperlipidemia
1. Lifestyle Changes
- Dietary modifications: Reduce saturated fats and increase fiber intake.
- Regular physical activity: Helps raise HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol.
- Weight management: Losing even 5-10% of body weight can improve lipid levels.
2. Medications
- Statins (for example atorvastatin, rosuvastatin): Lower cholesterol production.
- Ezetimibe: Reduces cholesterol absorption in the intestines.
- PCSK9 Inhibitors: Used for familial hyperlipidemia.
- Bile Acid Sequestrants: Help remove cholesterol from the body.
- Fibrates: Lower triglycerides and increase HDL cholesterol.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Beneficial for lowering triglycerides.
Prognosis of Hyperlipidemia
- Early detection improves outcomes: Regular check-ups and prompt treatment reduce complications.
- Lifestyle changes are powerful: Diet, exercise and weight loss can significantly improve cholesterol levels.
- Medications help maintain control: If needed, statins and other treatments provide effective and long-term management.
- Proactive care is essential: Regular monitoring and following your doctor’s advice can help you lead a healthy, active life.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
At MyhealthMydoctor, we offer:
- Comprehensive lipid profile testing
- Personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs
- Nutritional counseling for cholesterol management
- Advanced cardiovascular risk assessments
- Medication management and follow up care
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What are the best dietary changes to lower my cholesterol?
- How often should I get my cholesterol levels checked?
- Are there any side effects of cholesterol-lowering medications?
- Can high cholesterol be reversed without medication?
- What are the warning signs that my cholesterol levels are dangerously high?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- A clear explanation of your cholesterol levels and risks.
- Personalised advice on lifestyle modifications.
- Discussion on medication options if needed.
- A detailed treatment plan with follow-ups.
- Guidance on prevention strategies to maintain healthy lipid levels.