5 Important Information About Dyslipidemia That You Surely Don’t Want to Miss

Medically Reviewed by:Dr. Monika Agarwal
5 Important Information About Dyslipidemia That You Surely Don’t Want to Miss

Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for heart diseases, which is the leading cause of diseases and deaths globally. Over the past few years, the prevalence of dyslipidemia has increased. Hypercholesterolemia is the most prevalent type of dyslipidemia. It can be frightening to learn that you have dyslipidemia. On the other hand, this general term indicates that you may have one or more lipid profile parameters that are excessively high or low. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to treat this condition, ranging from taking medicines to making minor lifestyle changes, based on the types of lipids harmed.

The unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle play a part in the development of dyslipidemia, even in young people. Diabetic dyslipidemia is another term for high levels of TGs, LDL-C, and TRLs (triglyceride-rich lipoproteins) combined with low levels of HDL in diabetic individuals. Due to its high risk of cardiovascular events, this particular profile needs to be given the proper attention. 

However, we can manage dyslipidemia, lowering the risk of heart diseases in dyslipidemic people, with the help of certain drugs, nutraceuticals, and physical activity. Let’s know about this disorder and ways to manage it in detail in this article so that you can make informed health decisions for yourself.

What is Dyslipidemia?

A condition known as dyslipidemia or hyperlipidemia, is characterized by an excess of lipids (fats) in the blood. To aid in food digestion and hormone production, your liver produces cholesterol. However, items from the dairy and meat sections also contain cholesterol. You don't need all the cholesterol in food because your liver can produce it on its own.

Excessive fat can obstruct the arteries that carry blood throughout your body, making it unhealthy and life threatening. Your organs that don't get enough blood from your arteries get damaged by such blood flow obstructions.

The most harmful kind of cholesterol is low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which builds up as plaque in your blood vessels. The risk of suffering from a heart attack or stroke increases because this makes it more difficult for your blood to pass through it. In the event that the plaque becomes irritated or inflamed, a clot may form around it. Based on the location of the blockage, this may result in a heart attack or stroke.

Normal Lipid Levels

Following are the components of lipid profile and their normal ranges:

  • Your total cholesterol is measure total blood lipid levels in in your blood. It should be less than 200 mg/dL.
  • Your HDL cholesterol is good cholesterol and it helps in removing other forms of cholesterol from your blood. It should be 40 mg/dL or higher.
  • Your LDL cholesterol is bad cholesterol as it helps in plaque build-up in your blood vessels. It should be less than 100 mg/dL. 
  • Your triglyceride levels should not exceed the desired levels because it enhances the risk of heart diseases. It should be less than 150 mg/dL.

Causes of Dyslipidemia

Following are dyslipidemia causes:

  • Smoking
  • Excessive intake of alcohol
  • Intake of high fat food
  • Low physical activity
  • Stress
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Obesity

Certain medications that can cause dyslipidemia are:

  • Beta-blockers
  • Hormonal birth control
  • Diuretics
  • Steroids
  • Antiretrovirals

Medical problems that can cause dyslipidemia are:

  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Liver diseases
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Pancreas diseases
  • Multiple myeloma
  • Diabetes
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis
  • Lupus
  • HIV
  • Sleep apnea

Symptoms of Dyslipidemia

When your cholesterol is elevated in the beginning, it feels normal. You don't experience any symptoms. But over time, plaque accumulation, which is primarily composed of fats and cholesterol, can cause your heart's or brain's blood flow to slow down or stop. Breathlessness, jaw pain, and chest pain with exertion are some of the signs and symptoms of coronary artery disease. This disease is caused by high blood cholesterol levels.

An entire artery is sealed off when a ruptured plaque made of cholesterol is covered by a clot. Breathing difficulties, flushing, nausea, and excruciating chest pain are all signs of a heart attack, a medical emergency.

Consequences of Dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemia can lead to following consequences:

  • Coronary artery disease
  • Atherosclerosis
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Renal 
  • Peripheral Vascular Disease
  • High blood pressure

Treatment for Dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemia can managed by following activities:

  • Exercising
  • Quitting smoking
  • Sleeping well
  • Lowering your stress levels
  • Eating healthier foods.
  • Limiting alcohol intake
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Taking medications such as statins on your doctor’s prescription

Conclusion

A heart attack or stroke may occur as a result of hyperlipidemia, or high cholesterol, which causes plaque to build up inside blood vessels. Fortunately, you can lower your risk of stroke and heart attack. You can lower your cholesterol in a number of ways, including by eating better and exercising more. Complying with your doctor's prescriptions also has an impact. Getting tested for cholesterol levels can help you to take steps for your well-being at earliest.

Get a lipid profile test done at Dr. B. Lal Lab and get accurate results. Also, avail free home collection and free report consultation.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

Q1: What is the best treatment for dyslipidemia?
A: The best treatment for dyslipidemia is lifestyle modification. However, statin is the drug most frequently used to treat dyslipidemia.

Q2: What is the main cause of dyslipidemia?
A: Unhealthy lifestyle is the most common cause of dyslipidemia. However, many medications or medical conditions can also contribute to it. Moreover, there is also familial history associated with it.

Q3: What is the most common symptom of dyslipidemia?
A: It feels normal when your cholesterol is elevated initially. You don't feel any symptoms at all. However, plaque buildup can eventually cause your heart's or brain's blood flow to slow down or stop entirely. Among the telltale signs and symptoms of coronary artery disease are dyspnea, jaw pain, and chest pain during physical activity. Elevated levels of blood cholesterol are the cause of this illness.

Q4: Which drinks are suggested to reduce cholesterol?
A: Consuming too much trans and saturated fat can lead to elevated cholesterol. A healthy cholesterol level can be maintained with the aid of some beverages. Red wine, plant-based smoothies, soy milk, pomegranate juice, citrus juice, and green tea are some of the best beverages for lowering cholesterol.

Q5: How should I eat if I have dyslipidemia?
A: Select whole grains such as quinoa, oatmeal, brown rice, barley, and fruits and vegetables such as avocados, Brussels sprouts, carrots, apricots, apple pears, or other citrus fruits and vegetables. Steer clear of foods high in cholesterol.

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