If you’ve ever had a routine blood test, you might have heard the term dyslipidemia — but what does it actually mean? Simply put, dyslipidemia is a condition where the levels of fats (lipids) in your blood are abnormal. These lipids include cholesterol and triglycerides, which are essential to our body but can cause health problems when out of balance.
Dyslipidemia refers to an imbalance of blood lipids, such as:
When these lipid levels go off track, they can silently increase your chances of developing serious cardiovascular issues like heart attacks or strokes.
One tricky aspect of dyslipidemia is that it usually does not cause noticeable symptoms. Many people only find out during routine blood work. In rare cases of genetic disorders, visible signs like fatty deposits under the skin or yellow patches around the eyes might appear.
Untreated dyslipidemia can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. This narrowing of blood vessels reduces blood flow and can trigger:
Because dyslipidemia often flies under the radar, getting regular blood tests is key to catching it early.
If you’ve been diagnosed with dyslipidemia or are at risk, one of the most important steps you can take is working with a Dietitian. Dietitians play a key role in helping you improve your blood lipid levels and reduce your risk of heart disease — all through personalized nutrition guidance.