The causes of hyperlipidemia

Written by Luo Juan
Endocrinology
Updated on January 22, 2025
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Regarding the causes of hyperlipidemia, it is generally categorized into primary and secondary types based on the causes. Primary hyperlipidemia is mainly due to genetic defects, such as certain familial hypercholesterolemia and familial mixed dyslipidemia, which are often caused by genetic defects. Secondary hyperlipidemia generally involves some acquired factors, including, for example, high fat content in the diet, which is a common cause of lipid abnormalities. Additionally, obesity can lead to increased plasma cholesterol. Long-term heavy drinking can also increase triglycerides in the blood. Smoking can also cause some drugs, such as estrogen, to raise blood triglycerides. Some glucocorticoids can also increase the synthesis of low-density lipoproteins, and so on. Other causes include diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, estrogen deficiency, hypothyroidism, systemic lupus erythematosus, glycogen storage diseases, and certain types of malnutrition, which can also lead to secondary lipid abnormalities. Therefore, the causes of hyperlipidemia are multifaceted.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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What are the dangers of hyperlipidemia?

If hyperlipidemia is present, it primarily refers to elevated levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein, though some patients may also have reduced high-density lipoprotein. The main risk of hyperlipidemia is the arterial sclerosis it can cause in blood vessels, which in severe cases can lead to plaque formation. Prolonged arterial sclerosis can cause acute cerebrovascular accidents, cerebral infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, or coronary artery disease of the heart, with severe cases leading to myocardial infarction. Significantly elevated triglycerides may also trigger acute pancreatitis. Therefore, it is essential to control lipid levels and maintain a light diet in cases of hyperlipidemia.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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What should be noted for hyperlipidemia?

High blood lipids primarily refer to elevated levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins in the blood. Some patients also show reduced levels of high-density lipoproteins. As for precautions for high blood lipids, the first is diet: it is essential to adopt a light diet and to avoid greasy foods, such as braised or fried items as much as possible. Secondly, control the amount of cooking oil used, and try to avoid animal fats, opting instead for vegetable oils. Additionally, it is advisable for those with high blood lipids to consult a specialist at a hospital promptly to determine if medication is required for treatment.

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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 Gan Jun
Endocrinology
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What should not be eaten if you have high blood lipids?

For patients with hyperlipidemia, it is certainly necessary to avoid foods rich in fats. Also, do not consume spicy and irritating foods, and do not use animal fats as the main cooking oil. Try to reduce the intake of lard, beef, fatty lamb, and fatty beef, and avoid foods high in cholesterol, including animal organs and egg yolks. Simultaneously, it's crucial to avoid alcohol, as it can inhibit protease and promote the synthesis of endogenous cholesterol and triglycerides, thus leading to elevated blood lipid levels. Therefore, patients with hyperlipidemia should regularly consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, including hawthorn, apples, pears, cucumbers, tomatoes, and the like. It is also advised that patients maintain appropriate physical exercise to increase energy expenditure, reduce weight, and lower blood lipid levels.

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Written by Zhang Yue Mei
Cardiology
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Can people with hyperlipidemia eat shrimp?

People with high blood lipids can eat shrimp, but they should eat it in moderation and not in large quantities. Eating shrimp often and in small amounts can supplement the body with high-quality proteins, minerals, and trace elements. Shrimp also contains substances that can enhance the body's immunity, thereby increasing the body's resistance. The diet of people with high blood lipids should primarily consist of low-fat, low-salt, and low-sugar foods. They should avoid fried foods and foods high in fat and cholesterol, eat more vegetables and fruits to prevent an increase in blood lipids, reduce arteriosclerosis, and prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.