Hyperlipidemia

If you have hyperlipidemia, or high cholesterol, it can lead to the development of serious health issues. Board-certified physician Elyse Cohen, MD, at Cohen Concierge, in Naples, Florida, has the expertise and experience to help bring your hyperlipidemia under control. Call the friendly office staff today to book an appointment for her superior care or schedule your visit online.

What is hyperlipidemia?

Hyperlipidemia is a term used to describe high lipid levels. Lipids are fats or waxy substances your body makes that don’t dissolve in water. 

Cholesterol is a lipid your body needs to help you take in the necessary fats and vitamins to make hormones. 

Hyperlipidemia occurs when your blood carries an excessive amount of fats or lipids in your blood, which is commonly referred to as high cholesterol. As cholesterol, triglycerides, and fats build up in your arteries, the channel in your arteries becomes narrower, making it difficult for blood to circulate. 

These factors can lead to high blood pressure, which can cause a blood clot that can break off, leading to a stroke or a heart attack.

What causes hyperlipidemia?

Your diet has the most impactful influence on your risk for high cholesterol. The types of foods that can increase the fats and lipids in your bloodstream include:

• Marbled red meats
• Fried foods
• Processed foods
• Pastries

Other factors that can put you at risk include smoking, drinking too much alcohol, not exercising, living a stressful lifestyle, and being overweight. In addition, your chance of developing hyperlipidemia increases if you have a family history of heart disease. 

Having your cholesterol tested routinely with a simple blood test at Cohen Concierge and sticking to a diet low in fats and cholesterol can play a significant role in your health.

What are the symptoms of hyperlipidemia?

When you have hyperlipidemia, you typically won’t notice any symptoms in the beginning stages of development. However, as plaque builds up from cholesterol and fats, it can slow down blood flow to your heart, leading to a serious condition called coronary artery disease (CAD).

Symptoms of CAD include jaw pain, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

How is hyperlipidemia treated?

Treatment for hyperlipidemia usually begins with making lifestyle changes. During your evaluation, Dr. Cohen learns about your daily routine and health habits and can recommend how to improve your condition with suggestions like getting your weight within a healthy range, getting enough sleep, and lowering your stress level. 

She may also prescribe medication to lower your cholesterol. 

To have your cholesterol tested, schedule an appointment at Cohen Concierge by phone or book online today.