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Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol and Triglycerides)

Imbalance of blood lipids that threatens cardiovascular health.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol and Triglycerides)?

Dyslipidemia is a broad concept describing abnormalities in blood lipoprotein and lipid levels. High LDL cholesterol ('bad cholesterol'), low HDL cholesterol ('good cholesterol'), and high triglycerides are independent determinants of cardiovascular disease risk.

Dyslipidemia has primary (genetic) and secondary (diabetes, hypothyroidism, obesity, medications) causes. Familial hypercholesterolemia is a special condition in which LDL is genetically extremely high and the risk of early coronary disease is very high.

Dyslipidemia typically progresses silently; diagnosis is made by a routine lipid profile. Cardiovascular risk assessment guides treatment decisions: aggressive LDL reduction with statins in high-risk individuals substantially reduces mortality.

Symptoms

Usually asymptomatic
Tendon xanthomas and xanthelasma (fatty deposits on eyelids) in severe hypercholesterolemia
Severe hypertriglyceridemia (>500 mg/dL) can cause pancreatitis
Early-age cardiovascular events (male <55, female <65)
Corneal arcus (white ring around the cornea) — familial hypercholesterolemia at a young age
Underlying disease symptoms in diabetic or hypothyroid-related dyslipidemia
Features of fatty liver (associated with high triglycerides)

Risk Factors

Family history of early cardiovascular disease or familial hypercholesterolemia
High intake of saturated and trans fats
Sedentary lifestyle
Obesity and type 2 diabetes
Hypothyroidism
Chronic kidney disease
Certain medications (thiazides, beta blockers, corticosteroids, retinoids)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When LDL cholesterol rises above 190 mg/dL
  • Triglycerides above 500 mg/dL (pancreatitis risk)
  • Screening from age 20 in those with a family history of early heart attack
  • Annual lipid profile in diabetes
  • If target LDL is not reached despite statin therapy

Treatment Methods

01
Lifestyle: reduce saturated fat and cholesterol, exercise, weight loss
02
Statin therapy: reduces LDL by 30-55% (atorvastatin, rosuvastatin)
03
Ezetimibe: additional LDL reduction in combination with a statin
04
PCSK9 inhibitors (evolocumab, alirocumab): in very high risk or statin intolerance
05
Fibrates and omega-3 fatty acids for triglycerides
06
Treatment of the underlying disease (hypothyroidism, diabetes)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.