Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia means cholesterol or triglyceride levels are higher than recommended. It does not cause symptoms in most cases, but it increases long-term cardiovascular risk.
Symptoms
Most people feel normal. That is why blood work is important -- elevated cholesterol has no reliable warning signs.
Causes and risk
Diet, genetics, diabetes, obesity, low activity, kidney disease, and some medicines can contribute.
How it is evaluated
We review lipid results, family history, blood pressure, blood sugar, smoking status, and overall heart risk.
Treatment
Treatment may include nutrition changes, exercise, weight loss, and medicine such as statins when risk is high enough.