You may feel healthy day to day, yet your lab results show “high cholesterol.” For many people in Fort Washington, hyperlipidemia develops quietly over time, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke long before symptoms appear.
Whether you call it high cholesterol or hyperlipidemia, it’s a common condition that affects millions. Hyperlipidemia refers to disorders that cause excess fats — also called lipids — to accumulate in the bloodstream. Some causes are lifestyle-related, while others are tied to genetics or underlying medical conditions.
Understanding Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia occurs when lipid levels in your blood become too high. Over time, these fats can build up along your artery walls, causing plaque that restricts blood flow and increases your risk of heart attack and stroke.
The primary lipids discussed in cholesterol testing are HDL (“good”) cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)
HDL removes cholesterol from your bloodstream and carries it back to the liver. Low HDL levels reduce your ability to clear cholesterol efficiently.
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
LDL contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries. Elevated LDL is strongly associated with heart disease.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the most common form of fat in the body and often rise in response to diets high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, or unhealthy fats.
Causes of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia can develop due to dietary factors, lifestyle habits, or underlying medical conditions. Identifying the cause helps determine the most effective treatment plan.
Diet
Foods known to elevate cholesterol include:
- Cheese
- Egg yolks
- Fried and processed foods
- Ice cream
- Pastries
- Red meat
Lifestyle Factors
Your daily habits can strongly influence lipid levels:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol use
- Being overweight
- Lack of exercise
- High stress levels
Medical Conditions
Certain health issues can contribute to elevated cholesterol:
- Diabetes
- Liver disease
- Pancreatic disorders
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Hypothyroidism
- Kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
Recognizing these contributing factors allows your provider to develop a targeted treatment strategy.
Symptoms and Complications of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia is often a “silent” condition — most people do not notice symptoms early on. Only blood testing can confirm a diagnosis. If untreated, however, cholesterol and fats can accumulate in the arteries and lead to serious complications.
Potential Complications Include:
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Narrowed arteries restrict blood flow to the heart, causing angina and increasing the risk of heart attack or heart failure.
Heart Attack
Plaque buildup can rupture, forming a clot that blocks blood flow. Warning signs may include:
- Chest pain
- Pain in the jaw, neck, shoulder, arm, or back
- Cold sweats
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or indigestion
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Women may experience less typical symptoms such as back or neck discomfort
Fatty Deposits
Inherited forms of hyperlipidemia may produce yellowish skin deposits called xanthelasmas or xanthomas.
Management and Lifestyle Changes
Hyperlipidemia is highly treatable, and many people reduce their cholesterol levels through consistent lifestyle changes.
Choose Healthy Fats
Use olive, canola, or sunflower oil instead of saturated or trans fats.
Increase Fiber Intake
Foods like oatmeal, fruits, beans, and lentils help lower LDL cholesterol.
Eat Fatty Fish
Salmon, tuna, and mackerel provide omega-3 fats that lower triglycerides.
Limit Sugary Foods
Reduce sugary drinks and minimize added sugars.
Quit Smoking
Stopping smoking raises HDL and supports overall cardiovascular health.
Prioritize Quality Sleep
Aim for at least 7 hours per night.
Manage Stress
Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, or regular walks can help reduce stress.
Limit Alcohol
Stick to no more than one drink per day.
Stay Active
Try to get 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
You Don’t Have to Manage It Alone
Navigating your cholesterol results and making lifestyle adjustments can feel overwhelming, but support is available. At Hilltop Endocrinology, Dr. Kehinde Folawewo specializes in hyperlipidemia and metabolic disorders that impact long-term health.
We go beyond the numbers. We take time to understand your lifestyle, medical history, and health goals to create a personalized treatment plan that truly fits your needs.
If you’re concerned about high cholesterol or have recently been diagnosed with hyperlipidemia, taking action now can protect your heart health for years to come.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Folawewo today and take the first step toward better cardiovascular wellness.
