Hyperlipidemia, which our hospital's cardiology outpatient clinic deals with, is important because it is a life-threatening disease.

What is Hyperlipidemia?

Hyperlipidemia caused by high cholesterol is an insidious disease. An increase in the rate of fat in the blood and abnormal changes in fats cause hyperlipidemia. In healthy individuals, LDL cholesterol level should be below 130 mg/dL, triglyceride level below 150 mg/dl and total cholesterol level below 200 mg/dL. HDL cholesterol level should be above 40mgr/dL in women and 50mgr/dL in men.

What are the Causes of Hyperlipidemia?

Although there is no single cause of hyperlipidemia, genetic factors, slowing metabolism, diet and lifestyle, smoking and alcohol consumption, diabetes and thyroid diseases can cause hyperlipidemia. Genetic hyperlipidemia is called primary hyperlipidemia. Other causes are secondary hyperlipidemia.

What are the Symptoms of Hyperlipidemia?

Hyperlipidemia, a disease that does not show itself immediately and progresses insidiously, has symptoms such as fatty plaques and cholesterol formation around the eyes and joints, and high triglyceride levels. An enlarged spleen is another symptom, and a more noticeable symptom during daily life is abdominal pain. Diagnosis of Hyperlipidemia Precautions should be taken from high cholesterol before cardiovascular disease occurs, so early diagnosis is important. Regular doctor checks should be made for early diagnosis, these checks can be once a year or every six months. By measuring the lipid value in the blood, total cholesterol, LDL and HDL are checked and the diagnosis is determined according to the results. Treatment of Hyperlipidemia For hyperlipidemia, treatment is planned by arranging nutrition and exercise, not drugs, in the first place.

Lifestyle change is a part of hyperlipidemia treatment that should not be skipped. Even if drug treatment is applied, the person should always pay attention to his diet. Reducing red meat consumption in terms of diet, preferring grilling or boiling instead of frying, increasing omega 3 consumption and consuming foods that do not contain saturated fat are part of the treatment. The daily amount of cholesterol should not exceed 300 mg. Exercise recommended for our heart health reduces bad fats in the body as part of the treatment. The exercise that is suitable for the patient and planned by the physician will have a significant effect on health.

Drug treatment is started if good results have not been achieved after a certain period of time as a result of diet and exercise programs. The aim of drug therapy is to reduce blood cholesterol levels, protect heart health and prevent arterial occlusion. Our cardiologist will determine the most appropriate treatment method for you after the diagnosis and, if necessary, will help you in cooperation with our dietitian and other medical units.