Indicators of hyperlipidemia

Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
Updated on September 17, 2024
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In fact, there are several commonly used lipid indicators. One is total cholesterol, the second is triglycerides, the third is high-density lipoprotein, and the fourth is low-density lipoprotein. The definition of hyperlipidemia, in fact clinically, is primarily characterized by elevated cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels. Some patients predominantly have elevated triglycerides. Therefore, these indicators need to be controlled in clinical practice. For example, total cholesterol, for diabetic patients, is generally required to be controlled below 4.5 mmol/L. For low-density lipoproteins, in people without coronary heart disease, it should be controlled below 2.6 mmol/L; for those with coronary heart disease as a high-risk factor, it should be controlled below 1.8 mmol/L.

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Early clinical symptoms of hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia early on does not show specific clinical symptoms and is typically indicated by increased blood lipid levels during physical examinations. If it is not taken seriously and left untreated, long-term hyperlipidemia can lead to noticeable clinical symptoms. Mild cases may experience fatigue and weakness. Prolonged elevated blood lipid levels can cause the blood to become viscous and flow slowly, affecting the supply of blood to the heart, leading to palpitations and shortness of breath that worsen with activity. It can also affect blood supply to the brain, causing irritability, restless sleep, frequent nightmares, and even sleepiness. Therefore, it is crucial to treat hyperlipidemia actively upon diagnosis to prevent it from impacting the blood supply to vital organs.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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What is good to eat for hyperlipidemia?

It is advisable for those with hyperlipidemia to maintain a light diet and avoid greasy food, making sure to remember which foods should not be eaten. First, try to eat less of foods that are braised or deep-fried; Second, use less oil when cooking; Third, it is suggested to consume vegetable oils instead of animal fats; Fourth, it is advised not to eat certain animal organs. Keep the diet light, and also drink plenty of water to manage hyperlipidemia in a timely manner.

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Written by Luo Juan
Endocrinology
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What department should I go to for hyperlipidemia?

Patients with hyperlipidemia should visit the endocrinology department, as hyperlipidemia is a manifestation of lipid metabolism disorder and is classified as a metabolic disease. Therefore, it falls under the purview of the endocrinology department. Moreover, hyperlipidemia is typically divided into secondary and primary types. Many cases of secondary hyperlipidemia are associated with endocrine disorders such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome, which are primary diseases of the endocrine system that can lead to lipid abnormalities. Therefore, patients with hyperlipidemia should seek treatment in endocrinology to identify the underlying causes of the condition.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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The harms of hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia mainly causes damage to the blood vessels throughout the body, easily leading to arteriosclerosis. In severe cases, plaques may form. This then affects the heart, potentially impacting the coronary arteries, leading to acute coronary syndrome or an acute myocardial infarction. It can also affect the cerebral vessels, possibly causing an acute cerebral infarction. When it affects the lower limb vessels, particularly in combination with diabetes, it can lead to diabetic lower limb vascular changes resulting in vascular occlusion and diabetic foot. Therefore, it is important to treat hyperlipidemia promptly.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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How is hyperlipidemia treated?

For the treatment of hyperlipidemia, first of all, it is essential to control your diet, avoiding foods that are too greasy. Foods that are typically braised or deep-fried should best be avoided. Secondly, when cooking, the amount of cooking oil should be controlled and it's recommended to opt for vegetable oils over animal fats, which are not advisable. Thirdly, if lipid levels remain high after dietary control, it is best to seek medical advice at a hospital and use lipid-lowering medication under the guidance of a doctor. Common lipid-lowering medications include statins and fibrates. The specific type of medication to be used should be based on the advice of the doctor. (Note: Specific medications should be taken under the supervision of a qualified medical professional.)