Lipid disorders

Lipid disorders - What it is

Lipid disorders refers to a group of conditions in which there are abnormal levels of lipids (cholesterol or fats) in the blood. Most lipid disorders do not cause symptoms on their own, but they can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. This includes heart disease, strokes, limb amputations, and blockage of major arteries.

There are several types of lipids. These include cholesterol and triglycerides.

The types of cholesterol which can be measured by a blood test include total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol. High levels of total and LDL cholesterol (sometimes called “bad cholesterol”) increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Not all cholesterol is bad, however – higher levels of HDL cholesterol lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

High triglyceride levels are also associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Lipid disorders - Symptoms

Lipid disorders - How to prevent?

You can improve your cholesterol levels by living a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet low in saturated fat, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting enough exercise.

Lipid disorders - Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors that are beyond your control can increase your risk of having lipid disorders. These include older age, male gender, and having a family history of lipid disorders.

There are some risk factors which can be improved through maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These risk factors include having an unhealthy diet, being overweight or obese, and not getting enough exercise.

Lipid disorders - Diagnosis

A simple blood test can be done to check your cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Lipid disorders - Treatments

Eating a balanced diet low in saturated fat, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting enough exercise will help to improve cholesterol levels. Cholesterol-lowering medications may be required in order to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.