You may feel completely healthy, yet your lab results say “high cholesterol.” For many people in Bethesda, hyperlipidemia develops silently over time, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke long before symptoms appear.
Some people call it high cholesterol; your doctor calls it hyperlipidemia. No matter the term, it’s a widespread condition affecting millions nationwide. Hyperlipidemia refers to several disorders that cause excess fats — or lipids — to accumulate in the bloodstream. Some causes are related to lifestyle, while others stem from genetics or underlying health 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, creating plaque that restricts blood flow and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Your body contains multiple types of lipids, but the most commonly discussed are HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol — known as “good” and “bad” cholesterol.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)
HDL transports cholesterol to your liver, where it can be used or removed. Low HDL levels prevent the body from clearing cholesterol efficiently, leaving it circulating in your blood.
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
LDL contributes to plaque buildup in your arteries. High LDL levels are a major risk factor for heart disease.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body and often rise with diets high in sugar or unhealthy fats.
Causes of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia can result from daily habits, diet, or underlying medical conditions. Identifying the cause is an important step in improving cholesterol levels.
Diet
Some foods naturally raise cholesterol levels, including:
- Cheese
- Egg yolks
- Fried or processed foods
- Ice cream
- Pastries
- Red meat
Lifestyle Factors
Your daily habits can influence cholesterol levels:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol use
- Being overweight
- Insufficient exercise
- High stress levels
Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions can contribute to elevated cholesterol:
- Diabetes
- Liver disease
- Pancreatic disorders
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Hypothyroidism
- Kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
Understanding these factors allows your healthcare provider to create a targeted and effective treatment strategy.
Symptoms and Complications of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia is often called a “silent” condition because it rarely causes symptoms early on. Only a blood test can confirm a diagnosis. Without treatment, however, cholesterol and fat can accumulate in the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden.
Potential Complications Include:
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Plaque buildup restricts blood flow to the heart and may cause angina, heart attack, or heart failure.
Heart Attack
Blood clots may form when plaque ruptures, blocking blood flow to the heart. Warning signs include:
- Chest pain
- Pain radiating to the jaw, back, shoulder, or arm
- Cold sweats
- Nausea or indigestion
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Women may experience atypical symptoms, such as back or neck discomfort
Fatty Deposits
Inherited forms of hyperlipidemia may cause yellowish fatty deposits under the skin, known as xanthelasmas (around the eyelids) or xanthomas (elbows, knees, or other areas).
Management and Lifestyle Changes
Hyperlipidemia is highly treatable, especially when lifestyle changes are made consistently. Even small adjustments can make a meaningful difference.
Choose Healthy Fats
Use oils such as olive, sunflower, or canola instead of saturated or trans fats.
Increase Fiber Intake
Fiber-rich foods — like oatmeal, fruits, lentils, and beans — help lower LDL cholesterol.
Eat Fatty Fish
Fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel provide omega-3s that reduce triglycerides.
Limit Sugary Foods
Avoid sugary drinks and minimize added sugars.
Quit Smoking
Quitting can raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Your provider can offer tools and guidance.
Prioritize Sleep
Aim for at least 7 hours of restful sleep each night.
Manage Stress
Consider yoga, meditation, walking, or other stress-reducing activities.
Limit Alcohol
Keep intake to no more than one drink per day.
Stay Active
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days — even shorter sessions throughout the day count.
You Don’t Have to Manage It Alone
Managing high cholesterol can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to understand your lab results and how they impact your long-term health. At Hilltop Endocrinology, Dr. Kehinde Folawewo specializes in hyperlipidemia and complex metabolic conditions.
Our approach goes beyond the numbers. We take time to evaluate your lifestyle, medical history, and personal goals to create a customized treatment plan that works for you.
If you’re concerned about high cholesterol or have been newly diagnosed with hyperlipidemia, now is the right time to take action.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Folawewo today and begin your personalized path to better heart health.
