Dyslipidemia, commonly known as high cholesterol, is a clinical condition in which fat levels in the blood are altered, increasing the risk of heart diseases such as heart attack and stroke. This change often goes unnoticed since it rarely presents specific symptoms and is most often diagnosed only through a blood test called a lipid panel.
In this text, we’ll explore its causes, treatment, complications, symptoms, prevention, and some interesting facts to help demystify this condition.
Causes
Dyslipidemia results from both genetic factors and lifestyle choices. Among the main causes are:
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A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, processed foods, sweets, and fast food
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Physical inactivity or sedentary lifestyle
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Overweight or obesity
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Use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids
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Chronic conditions like diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, kidney or liver disease
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Genetic factors (family history)
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Aging, which makes fat metabolism less efficient
Treatment
Treatment is primarily aimed at preventing cardiovascular diseases by increasing good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides.
The first line of treatment involves adopting a healthy lifestyle:
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A balanced diet that increases the intake of fiber, fish, omega-3 sources, extra virgin olive oil, and nuts, while avoiding processed foods, sweets, trans fats, and saturated fats
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Engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week — combining aerobic exercises (like walking, swimming, or dancing) with resistance training (such as weightlifting)
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Reducing body weight if excessive (BMI > 25)
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Quitting smoking
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Moderating or stopping alcohol consumption
When these lifestyle changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe medications, especially statins (such as atorvastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin), fibrates, or PCSK9 inhibitors, which help lower LDL and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made through a blood test called a lipid panel, which checks:
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LDL level (“bad” cholesterol)
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HDL level (“good” cholesterol)
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Triglyceride level
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Total cholesterol level
This test should be done at least once every 5 years starting at age 20, or more frequently if the doctor believes the patient is at higher cardiovascular risk, has diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease.
Complications
If not properly managed, dyslipidemia increases the risk of heart-related diseases, including:
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Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
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Stroke
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Peripheral artery disease
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Atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fat in the arteries
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Kidney problems related to changes in the arteries that supply the kidneys
Symptoms
In most cases, dyslipidemia is asymptomatic, only being detected through abnormal blood test results. However, in some instances, physical symptoms may appear, such as:
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Xanthomas (small fatty deposits on the skin)
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Xanthelasmas (yellowish plaques on the eyelids)
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Leg pain while walking (if leg arteries are blocked)
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Persistent fatigue, though this is a very general symptom
Prevention
Certain measures can help prevent dyslipidemia and its complications:
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Maintain a healthy diet, increasing intake of fiber, vegetables, fruits, and whole foods
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Reduce consumption of processed foods, sweets, trans fats, and saturated fats
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Exercise regularly
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Maintain a healthy body weight
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Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
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Get routine blood tests, especially if you have a family history of heart disease
Fun Facts / Curiosities
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Cholesterol is not the enemy — it plays a key role in the production of vitamin D, steroid hormones (like estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, and cortisol), and in maintaining cell membrane integrity and aiding in the absorption of certain vitamins.
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Dyslipidemia is often a silent condition — it may not present symptoms. That’s why regular blood tests are important, especially after age 40 or if you have a family history of heart disease.
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Some groups are more prone to dyslipidemia, including those with diabetes, obesity, or metabolic syndrome.
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Only LDL is considered “bad” cholesterol, while HDL is the “good” one that helps prevent fat buildup in the arteries.
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Certain foods — like avocado, olive oil, nuts, chia, flaxseed, fatty fish, and dark green vegetables — help raise HDL and control LDL.
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Dyslipidemia is one of the chronic conditions that have been rising in recent decades alongside obesity and sedentary lifestyles.
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It’s not just about diet — stress, lack of sleep, inactivity, smoking, and family history can all influence blood fat levels.
Conclusion
Dyslipidemia is a common condition in the population. Although often silent, it significantly increases the risk of heart disease. Partnering with a doctor is essential for proper treatment, improving both life expectancy and quality of life.
With proper management, it is entirely possible to live a healthy life — with more energy, vitality, and longevity.
