Hyperlipidemia is characterized by unusually high levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, which include cholesterol and triglycerides. Excessive lipid levels can cause plaque to form within the arteries, causing the arteries to stiffen and narrow (atherosclerosis) and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. A variety of factors can raise your risk of developing hyperlipidemia. While some cannot be avoided (for example, your family history), others, such as nutrition and exercise, may. Many persons with hyperlipidemia can lower their cholesterol and triglyceride levels by eating healthier, exercising more, and keeping a healthy weight. Others may require medication to maintain healthy lipid levels.
Hyperlipidemia Causes and Risk Factors
When a high level of circulating lipids becomes connected to low-density lipoproteins (LDL cholesterol, sometimes known as “bad cholesterol”) or extremely low-density lipoproteins, The plaque, which is composed of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances, hardens and narrows the arteries.
Cholesterol associated to high-density lipoprotein (HDL cholesterol) on the other hand shows excess cholesterol being eliminated from the tissues. As a result, HDL cholesterol is referred to as “good cholesterol.”
Hyperlipidemia can be caused by or increased by any of the following factors:
Consuming a high-saturated-fat and cholesterol-rich diet (primary cause)
- Genetics
- Using certain hormonal or steroidal drugs
- Existing medical conditions (diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney disease)
- Sedentism is a way of life.
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Drinking too much alcohol
Signs and Symptoms of Hyperlipidemia
A person with hyperlipidemia will typically not have any specific symptoms other than those related with risk factors and/or causes. A person with hyperlipidemia, for example, may exhibit the signs and symptoms associated with obesity and an imbalanced diet (shortness of breath, numerous skin diseases, and extra body fat).
Hyperlipidemia can cause any of the following symptoms as it progresses:
- Chest ache (angina)
- Blood pressure that is too high
- Cramps in the calf muscles
- Foot discomfort
- Confusion or difficulty speaking
- Breathing difficulty
- Muscle fatigue
- Cholesterol fatty deposits around the eyes
Diagnosing Of Hyperlipidemia
If your doctor suspects you have hyperlipidemia, he or she will usually order a blood test to confirm the diagnosis (commonly referred to as a lipid panel or a lipid profile). You should fast for eight to twelve hours before the test. Your doctor will give you further precise instructions on how to prepare.
Treatment For Hyperlipidemia
Your doctor may first advise you to adopt lifestyle adjustments to help lower your cholesterol levels. To control hyperlipidemia, your provider may advise you to work with a team. A dietitian, an exercise or physical therapist, and a behavior therapist may be part of the team. Your family members may be incorporated in helping you develop lifestyle adjustments. You may also need to take lipid-lowering medication. The following are some of the lifestyle modifications you may need to make:
Keep a healthy weight. Inquire with your doctor about what constitutes a healthy weight for you. Ask him or her to assist you design a weight loss plan if you are overweight. Losing weight can help you lower your cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Be physically active throughout the day. Physical activity, such as exercise, decreases cholesterol levels and aids in the maintenance of a healthy weight. 4 to 6 days a week, get 30 minutes or more of aerobic exercise. Instead of exercising for 30 minutes at a time, divide your workout into four 10-minute sessions. Aerobic exercises include vigorous walking, swimming, and riding a bike. Plan the ideal fitness regimen for you with the help of your healthcare provider. Include strength exercise at least twice a week. Your healthcare providers can assist you in developing a physical activity plan.
- You must not smoke. Nicotine and other compounds in cigarettes and cigars can raise your chance of having a heart attack or having a stroke. If you presently smoke and need assistance quitting, speak with your healthcare professional. Nicotine is still present in e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. Before using these products, consult with your healthcare physician.
- Consume heart-healthy foods. Further information on low-sodium diets or the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan can be obtained from a nutritionist or your provider. The DASH diet is low in sodium, refined sugar, trans fat, and total fat. It contains a lot of potassium, calcium, and fiber. It contains a lot of potassium, calcium, and fiber. They can be found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The following are some ideas for increasing your intake of heart-healthy foods:
- Check with your doctor to see if you can consume alcohol. Alcohol might raise your triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Your provider can tell you how many beverages you can have in the next 24 hours and one week.
