Dyslipidemia
What is dyslipidemia? All about the causes, symptoms, and most effective treatments for the different types of this condition.
Symptoms and Causes
Dyslipidemia, or dyslipidemia, is a condition caused by an alteration in blood lipid levels, especially cholesterol and triglycerides. Dyslipidemia is caused by both hyperlipidemia (plasma lipid concentrations above those accepted by consensus) and hypolipidemia (decrease in concentration).
On one hand, cholesterol is necessary for the body to absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins, and it contributes to the synthesis of vitamin D and certain hormones such as cortisol, estrogens, and testosterone. On the other hand, triglycerides provide the energy needed by the body to carry out metabolic processes. Over time, and with an unhealthy lifestyle, the amount of lipoproteins in the blood increases, raising the risk of developing atherosclerosis, which consists of the accumulation of fat in the arteries and a subsequent reduction in blood flow. Certain genetic factors, chronic infections, or hyperthyroidism, among other diseases, promote the decrease in lipid levels.
Dyslipidemia can be of various types depending on the lipids affected. In the case of dyslipidemia, high values are those above which hypolipidemic treatment is recommended, which varies based on the individual’s baseline risk:
- Hypercholesterolemia: LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) above 116 mg/dl.
- Hypertriglyceridemia: Triglycerides above 150 mg/dl.
- Mixed hyperlipidemia: Elevated concentrations of both LDL and triglycerides.
Symptoms
Dyslipidemia does not show symptoms and is only discovered when a blood test is done. Since its effects can cause serious health problems, it is advisable to undergo regular check-ups to obtain an early diagnosis.
Causes
There are two types of dyslipidemia depending on the causes:
- Primary dyslipidemia: Caused by a hereditary genetic mutation. It can consist of an excess of triglyceride or LDL cholesterol production, or a defect in HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein).
- Secondary dyslipidemia: Occurs due to a sedentary lifestyle, a high intake of saturated fats and calories, as well as as a consequence of other diseases such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, cirrhosis, or chronic nephropathy.
Risk Factors
Some of the risk factors for dyslipidemia include:
- Genetic predisposition and family history.
- Smoking.
- Alcoholism.
- Overweight.
- Type 2 diabetes.
- Chronic kidney disease.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Menopause.
Complications
Among the main complications of dyslipidemia, which typically causes obstruction of blood vessels or the formation of clots, are myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, thrombus formation, and strokes.
Prevention
The best way to prevent dyslipidemia is to undergo regular medical check-ups to monitor cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. Additionally, it is recommended to engage in moderate physical activity regularly, maintain a healthy diet, and avoid the consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
Which doctor treats dyslipidemia?
The diagnosis and treatment of dyslipidemia are carried out by internists, cardiologists, and family physicians.
Diagnosis
Dyslipidemia is diagnosed through a blood test, which measures LDL and HDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides in the blood.
Treatment
The treatment for dyslipidemia is based on two main aspects:
- Adopting a healthier lifestyle: exercise, a healthy diet, weight management, etc.
- Specific medication to help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels (statins, fibrates, PCSK9 inhibitors, ion-exchange resins…).
