Dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemia refers to an imbalance in blood lipids, typically involving elevated total cholesterol, low?density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad” cholesterol), and triglycerides, along with reduced high?density lipoprotein (HDL or “good” cholesterol). It greatly raises the risk of atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease, even though many people remain asymptomatic for years.

Common causes include an unhealthy diet rich in saturated and trans fats, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and certain medications; inherited disorders can also lead to primary dyslipidemia. Diagnosis relies on a lipid?profile blood test measuring total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, often done after fasting.

First?line treatment focuses on lifestyle changes: a heart?healthy diet (Mediterranean or DASH?style), regular exercise, weight control, and smoking cessation. When lifestyle measures are insufficient, lipid?modifying drugs such as statins, ezetimibe, fibrates, or PCSK9 inhibitors are prescribed to lower LDL and prevent cardiovascular events. Regular monitoring and early intervention help reduce long?term complications and improve outcomes in patients with dyslipidemia.