You may feel completely healthy, yet your recent lab results say “high cholesterol.” For many people in Silver Spring, hyperlipidemia develops silently over time, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke without any obvious warning signs.
You might call it high cholesterol. Your doctor calls it hyperlipidemia. No matter the name, it’s a common condition that affects millions of Americans. Hyperlipidemia refers to several disorders that cause excess fats — also known as lipids — to build up in your bloodstream. Some causes stem from lifestyle factors, while others are genetic or related to underlying health conditions.
Understanding Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia occurs when you have an elevated amount of lipids circulating in your blood. Over time, these fats can contribute to plaque buildup inside your arteries, narrowing them and increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Your body contains several types of lipids, but the most commonly discussed are HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol — often known as “good” and “bad” cholesterol.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)
HDL carries cholesterol through your bloodstream back to your liver, where it can be used or removed. Low HDL levels mean your body can’t effectively clear cholesterol, allowing it to accumulate in your arteries.
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
LDL is considered “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque buildup in your arteries. High LDL levels significantly increase the risk of heart disease.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body, largely coming from foods high in sugar or fat. Elevated triglycerides often accompany high cholesterol.
Causes of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia can develop due to lifestyle habits, dietary patterns, or medical conditions. Understanding the underlying causes is key to effective treatment.
Diet
Cholesterol comes from both your liver and the food you eat. Foods that can raise cholesterol include:
- Cheese
- Egg yolks
- Fried and processed foods
- Ice cream
- Pastries
- Red meat
Lifestyle Factors
Daily habits that contribute to high cholesterol include:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Being overweight
- Lack of physical activity
- High stress levels
Medical Conditions
Certain health problems can raise your cholesterol levels:
- Diabetes
- Liver disease
- Pancreatic disorders
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Hypothyroidism
- Kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
Recognizing these risk factors helps you and your healthcare provider create an effective cholesterol-management plan.
Symptoms and Complications of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia is often known as a “silent” condition — most people don’t feel any symptoms at all. A blood test is the only way to diagnose it accurately. However, without treatment, fats and cholesterol slowly build up in your arteries, increasing the risk of serious complications.
Potential Complications Include:
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Clogged arteries limit blood flow to the heart and can lead to angina, heart attack, or heart failure.
Heart Attack
Plaque buildup can rupture and cause blood clots that block blood flow to the heart. Warning signs include:
- Chest pain
- Pain in the jaw, neck, shoulder, back, or arm
- Cold sweats
- Indigestion or nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Unusual fatigue
- Women may experience less-obvious symptoms like back or neck pain
Fatty Deposits
Inherited forms of hyperlipidemia can cause yellow deposits under the skin (xanthelasmas near the eyelids or xanthomas on elbows/knees).
Management and Lifestyle Changes
Hyperlipidemia is highly manageable, and many people successfully lower their cholesterol with consistent lifestyle changes.
Healthy Fats
Use heart-healthy oils like olive, sunflower, or canola instead of trans and saturated fats.
Increase Fiber Intake
Foods like oatmeal, fruits, lentils, and beans help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
Eat Fatty Fish
Salmon, tuna, and mackerel provide omega-3 fatty acids that reduce triglycerides.
Limit Sugary Foods
Reduce sugary beverages and processed desserts.
Quit Smoking
Stopping smoking can raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol. A doctor can help you with smoking-cessation tools.
Get Adequate Sleep
Aim for at least 7 hours each night to support overall cardiovascular health.
Manage Stress
Meditation, yoga, walking, or breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels.
Limit Alcohol
Keep alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day.
Stay Active
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week — even short sessions throughout the day help.
You Don’t Have to Manage It Alone
Understanding your cholesterol results can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Hilltop Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Dr. Kehinde Folawewo specializes in hyperlipidemia and other metabolic conditions that affect your long-term health.
We focus on you as a whole person — not just your numbers. Our approach includes evaluating your medical history, lifestyle, risk factors, and goals to create a personalized plan that works for your life.
If you’re concerned about high cholesterol or have been diagnosed with hyperlipidemia, the most important step is taking action.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Folawewo today and begin your personalized path to better heart health.
