Hyperlipidemia

More than 11% of adults in the United States have high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), which increases the risk of heart problems and other concerns when left untreated. At Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC in Indian Land, South Carolina, family nurse practitioner Cassandra Calloway, MSN, FNP-C, BSN, RN, diagnoses and treats hyperlipidemia to optimize your health and well-being. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.

What is hyperlipidemia?

Hyperlipidemia describes high cholesterol, a condition in which there are too many fats in your blood. High cholesterol increases the risk of a heart attack and stroke, but treatment with Cassandra at Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC can get your levels into a healthy range. 

Your liver creates cholesterol to help you do things like make hormones and digest food. But cholesterol is also present in animal-based foods, including dairy products and meat. The cholesterol in your diet provides extra cholesterol, as the liver can make as much as your body needs.

High cholesterol in your blood can cause a buildup of plaque in blood vessels, especially your arteries. This can reduce the amount of blood flow and cause organ damage. 

What are the different types of cholesterol?

The following describes different types of cholesterol:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): harmful cholesterol that can clog your arteries 
• Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL): carries triglycerides, which can add to plaque buildup in the arteries

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL): good cholesterol that carries cholesterol to your liver to be eliminated

High cholesterol is a common cause of heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.

Does hyperlipidemia cause any symptoms?

Hyperlipidemia doesn’t typically cause any symptoms, but you might experience symptoms if you develop coronary artery disease (CAD) due to high cholesterol. CAD symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and jaw pain. 

Severe chest pain, nausea, difficulty breathing, and flushing are signs of a heart attack, which is a medical emergency. 

What are the risk factors for hyperlipidemia?

Hyperlipidemia risk factors may include:

• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Poor dietary habits
• Eating foods high in saturated or trans fat
• Smoking
• Stress
• Family history of high cholesterol
• Being over 40
• Being male or a postmenopausal female
• Some medications
• Certain medical conditions

Examples of medical concerns that might increase the risk of hyperlipidemia include sleep apnea, lupus, diabetes, thyroid disease, kidney disease, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 

How is hyperlipidemia diagnosed and treated?

Cassandra uses a simple blood test to evaluate your cholesterol levels. She also reviews your medical history, risk factors, lifestyle habits, and medications. 

Your hyperlipidemia treatment plan could include making healthy lifestyle changes, involving your diet, exercise, sleep, or stress levels, and/or taking medications. It’s also helpful to achieve or maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking, and limit or avoid alcohol.

Follow up with Cassandra at Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC to ensure your cholesterol levels stay within a healthy range. She lets you know when to schedule your next cholesterol screening or wellness exam.

Schedule an appointment at Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC by phone or request one online today to be screened and/or treated for hyperlipidemia.