Hyperlipidaemia Specialists in Karnataka

What is Hyperlipidaemia?

Hyperlipidaemia is a condition characterised by abnormally high levels of lipids, particularly cholesterol and triglycerides, circulating in the blood. Excess LDL cholesterol, often called "bad cholesterol," gradually deposits within artery walls, contributing to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques that narrow blood vessels over time. The condition is typically silent, producing no symptoms directly, and is usually identified through a routine blood test called a lipid profile. Left unmanaged over years, hyperlipidaemia significantly raises the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. It is highly manageable through dietary changes, physical activity, and, when needed, cholesterol-lowering medication, making regular screening and early intervention valuable.

Causes of Hyperlipidaemia

Caused by a combination of genetic factors that affect how the body processes fats, and lifestyle factors including a diet high in saturated and trans fats, physical inactivity, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption. Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney disease can also raise lipid levels. Some individuals have an inherited condition called familial hypercholesterolaemia that causes markedly elevated cholesterol from a young age.

Symptoms of Hyperlipidaemia

Usually asymptomatic, occasionally yellowish cholesterol deposits around the eyes or on tendons, chest pain if coronary artery disease has developed as a complication, in very high triglyceride levels abdominal pain from pancreatitis

Treatment & Types of Hyperlipidaemia in Karnataka

Treatment begins with lifestyle changes including a diet low in saturated fat, increased physical activity, weight management, and reduced alcohol intake. Statins are the most commonly prescribed medications to lower LDL cholesterol, with other agents such as ezetimibe or PCSK9 inhibitors added for patients who do not reach target levels or cannot tolerate statins. Regular lipid profile monitoring helps track response to treatment and guide any adjustments needed.

Hyperlipidaemia is classified as primary, resulting from inherited genetic factors such as familial hypercholesterolaemia that cause markedly elevated cholesterol from a young age, or secondary, resulting from lifestyle factors or other medical conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, or kidney disease. It's also described by the specific lipid pattern involved, such as isolated high LDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, or a mixed pattern, which influences medication choice.

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