Hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia, in its different forms, can be associated with both genetic factors and lifestyle habits, and although it frequently does not present obvious symptoms, its effects can be devastating if it is not detected and treated in time. This article explores in depth what hyperlipidemia is, its causes, consequences, diagnosis and treatment, with a focus on the importance of prevention and control to reduce its risks.

It refers to the elevated presence of lipids in the blood plasma. These lipids mainly include cholesterol and triglycerides, which are essential for various functions in the body, such as energy production and the formation of cell membranes. However, when their levels rise beyond normal, they can begin to build up in the arteries, leading to a condition known as atherosclerosis.

There are several types of hyperlipidemia, depending on the type of lipids that are elevated. The most common are:

1. Hypercholesterolemia: when blood cholesterol levels, especially LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol), are elevated. This type is a key factor in the development of heart disease.

2. Hypertriglyceridemia: In this case, high levels correspond to triglycerides, a type of fat that is stored in the body to be used as energy. Hypertriglyceridemia is also linked to increased cardiovascular risk, especially when combined with other factors such as obesity or diabetes.

3. Mixed hyperlipidemia: This type combines high levels of both cholesterol and triglycerides. It is a more complex metabolic disorder and has a particularly high risk of cardiovascular complications.

Causes of hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia can be of primary or secondary origin. In the case of primary hyperlipidemia, the main cause is genetic, that is, an inherited predisposition to high levels of lipids in the blood. A clear example of this is familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that affects the body’s ability to eliminate LDL cholesterol, resulting in excessive accumulations of this substance in the arteries from an early age.

On the other hand, secondary hyperlipidemia develops as a consequence of lifestyle factors or underlying diseases. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol– Regular consumption of foods high in saturated fat, such as red meat, full-fat dairy products, and processed foods, can lead to increased levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

2. Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity reduces the body’s ability to metabolize lipids, which contributes to their accumulation in the blood.

3. Obesity: Excess body weight, especially abdominal obesity, is closely related to insulin resistance and increased triglyceride and cholesterol levels.

4. Diabetes mellitus: People with diabetes, especially if it is not well controlled, are at increased risk of developing hyperlipidemia, since insulin resistance alters lipid metabolism.

5. Hypothyroidism: This condition, in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones, is associated with elevated cholesterol levels, since thyroid hormones help regulate fat metabolism.

6. Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol abuse can significantly raise blood triglyceride levels, increasing the risk of pancreatitis and heart disease.

7. Kidney and liver diseases: Dysfunctions in the kidneys or liver, key organs for metabolism and lipid elimination, can also lead to high levels of blood fats.

Consequences of hyperlipidemia

The greatest danger of hyperlipidemia lies in its ability to trigger atherosclerosis, a condition in which cholesterol and other lipids accumulate on the walls of the arteries, forming plaques that harden and narrow them. This progressive process reduces blood flow to vital organs, such as the heart and brain, and can culminate in life-threatening events such as heart attacks or strokes.

LDL cholesterol, known as “bad”, is the main culprit in the formation of these plaques, while HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoproteins), known as “good”, helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries, transporting it back to the liver to be eliminated. When LDL levels are too high compared to HDL, the risk of cardiovascular disease increases considerably.

Hypertriglyceridemia also has a direct impact on cardiovascular health. High levels of triglycerides are often associated with other conditions such as insulin resistance, obesity and inflammation, all risk factors for the development of heart disease and metabolic syndrome.

In addition to cardiovascular risk, hyperlipidemia can also cause other serious health problems. Extremely high levels of triglycerides, for example, can cause pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that can be life-threatening if not treated in time.

Diagnosis: detect hyperlipidemia early

The diagnosis of hyperlipidemia is made through blood tests, known as a lipid profile or lipid panel, which measure the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the plasma. These tests are often part of routine medical checkups, especially for people with known risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.

To interpret the results of a lipid profile, the following reference values ​​are used:

• Total cholesterol: less than 200 mg/dL (optimal), 200-239 mg/dL (moderately high), more than 240 mg/dL (high).

• LDL cholesterol: less than 100 mg/dL (optimal), 100-129 mg/dL (close to optimal), 130-159 mg/dL (moderately high), more than 160 mg/dL (high).

• HDL cholesterol: more than 60 mg/dL (protective), less than 40 mg/dL (low).

• Triglycerides: less than 150 mg/dL (optimal), 150-199 mg/dL (moderately high), more than 200 mg/dL (high).

An early diagnosis is essential to take preventive measures that can reduce the risk of serious complications. However, because hyperlipidemia usually does not cause symptoms until significant damage has occurred to the arteries, many people do not know they have it until they suffer a cardiovascular event.

Treatment: control hyperlipidemia to protect the heart

Treatment of hyperlipidemia is based on a combination of lifestyle changes and, when necessary, pharmacological intervention. The first line of defense against this disorder is dietary modification and increased physical activity. This includes:

1. Diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol: It is recommended to reduce the consumption of foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol, such as red meat, butter, cheese and processed foods, and opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and healthy fats (such as olive oil and nuts).

2. Weight loss: For people who are overweight or obese, losing weight can help reduce triglyceride levels and improve the overall lipid profile.

3. Regular exercise: Regular physical activity, at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, can raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels and lower triglycerides.

When lifestyle modifications are not sufficient to control lipid levels, pharmacological treatment is used. Statins are the most commonly prescribed group of medications to lower LDL cholesterol, while other drugs, such as fibrates and cholesterol absorption inhibitors, can be used to lower triglycerides and improve HDL cholesterol.

Hyperlipidemia is a silent condition that affects millions of people around the world, many of whom are unaware of their risk until they suffer serious complications. The key to combating this disorder lies in prevention and control, through healthy lifestyle habits and regular monitoring of blood lipid levels. An early and proactive approach can make the difference between a life with or without cardiovascular disease, providing longer life expectancy and better quality of life for those affected.