What are the Risks of Excess Lipids?
When people think of excess lipids, they are usually thinking of blood measurements for lipids that measure cholesterol and triglycerides. Depending upon the amount of these lipids in the blood, risks to health can occur.
A lipids profile test breaks down lipids into three categories, high-density lipids, low-density lipids, and triglycerides. When one examines the health of a person based on these measurements, one looks for excess lipids that are low density.
Low-density lipids (LDLs) in greater number are sometimes referred to by doctors as high cholesterol. Excess lipids of this type increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. At particular risk are the arteries, where LDLs can accumulate and block arteries. Thus excess lipids that are LDLs can pose significant threat to health.
Conversely, high-density lipids (HDLs) are called good cholesterol. Having excess lipids that are HDLs does not pose a health risk, since they actually prevent some of the diseases caused by LDLs. HDLs keep LDLs in check. Thus low amounts of high-density lipids in association with excess lipids that are LDLs further increase the risk for heart disease.
Excess lipids that are triglycerides also pose a greater risk for developing heart disease. A person with excess lipids that are LDLs and triglycerides really increases risk for developing diseases affecting the cardiovascular system, particularly when low levels of HDLs accompany these measurements.
Excess lipids may be treated in a variety of ways. Those who have high levels of bad cholesterol are encouraged to change their diets to produce more HDLs and lower LDLs and triglycerides. When diet alone is not enough to effect change, doctors may also consider medication, which can help reduce excess lipids.
Patients with excess lipids are monitored for further risks to heart and artery disease, and will probably take more frequent blood tests to be certain that cholesterol is reducing. Those with high cholesterol will probably need to continue on a reduced fat diet, and as well, may need to remain on medication for life.
Written by Tricia Ellis-Christensen
