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High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)

Elevated blood lipid levels that increase the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

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

What is High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)?

Hyperlipidemia is a condition in which blood levels of cholesterol and/or triglycerides are above normal. LDL ('bad') cholesterol accumulates in the arterial wall and accelerates atherosclerosis, while HDL ('good') cholesterol is protective.

High cholesterol by itself produces no symptoms; it can therefore progress unnoticed for years, paving the way for heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

Blood lipids should be measured regularly; lifestyle modification and, when necessary, medication can bring levels to their targets.

Symptoms

Usually produces no symptoms (silent disease)
Acute pancreatitis in very high triglyceride levels
Xanthomas: cholesterol deposits around the joints
Xanthelasma: yellowish fatty deposits on the eyelids
Corneal arcus: a gray-white ring in the eye (in older individuals)
Manifestations of coronary disease (chest pain, shortness of breath) as a long-term consequence

Risk Factors

A diet rich in saturated and trans fats
Obesity and physical inactivity
Diabetes and hypothyroidism
Family history of high cholesterol (familial hypercholesterolemia)
Smoking
Kidney disease
Certain medications (corticosteroids, some antihypertensives)

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • All adults over 20 should have a lipid profile at least every five years
  • Earlier screening when there is a family history of early heart disease or familial hypercholesterolemia
  • If the LDL target is not reached despite statin therapy
  • If xanthomas appear on the chest or around the tendons
  • Annual check-ups for people with diabetes or high cardiovascular risk

Treatment Methods

01
A healthy diet low in saturated fats and processed foods
02
Regular aerobic exercise (at least 150 minutes per week)
03
Smoking cessation
04
Statins (first-line therapy for lowering LDL)
05
Ezetimibe and PCSK9 inhibitors (in high-risk patients or statin intolerance)
06
Fibrates and omega-3 (for elevated triglyceride levels)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji 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.