Let our cardiologists help monitor and treat your hyperlipidemia! Hyperlipidemia, also known as high cholesterol, affects a lot of Americans. To help determine if you have this condition, our cardiologists at Apex Heart and Vascular Center can perform the necessary evaluation/s.
Hyperlipidemia: Definition
A simple blood panel is used in diagnosing hyperlipidemia. This is a condition where there are high levels of lipids or fats found in the blood. These lipids or fats include cholesterol and triglycerides.
Hyperlipidemia may result in serious heart problems if left unchecked and untreated. The buildup of fats in the arteries causes such arteries to become narrower. This results in poor blood circulation leading to high blood pressure which, in turn, can develop to a blood clot. A blood clot that breaks and moves to the brain results to a stroke while one that moves to the heart leads to a heart attack.
Symptoms
Patients with hyperlipidemia generally show no signs nor symptoms during the early stages. That is why it is important for those with high risks of developing this condition to have regular checkups, especially on their cholesterol levels. As per recommendation from the American Heart Association, adults aged 20 years and above should have their cholesterol levels evaluated every 4 to 6 years while frequent checkups may be necessary for those with high risk factors.
Risk Factors
Hyperlipidemia has the following risk factors:
- Waist circumference of 40 inches for men or 35 inches for women
- Obesity or being overweight
- Consuming a diet high in saturated fats
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Genetics or family history
- Post-menopausal women
Treatment
Making healthy lifestyle changes is the major key to improving hyperlipidemia. Alcohol should be limited, if not avoided, by those with high triglyceride levels. Patients may be prescribed with medications, as well.
Schedule an appointment with our cardiologists online or call 973-916-0002 for your questions.