Hyperlipidemia is the medical term for high blood cholesterol, or a significant amount of “fat” in the blood. This can increase the chance of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.

Signs & Symptoms

Hyperlipidemia does not produce symptoms. If it results in coronary heart disease (CHD) or atherosclerosis, symptoms can include:

• Chest pain or pressure (angina)
• Blockage of blood vessels in brain and heart
• High blood pressure
• Heart attack
• Stroke

Diagnosis

A Deborah Specialty Physician will perform a routine cholesterol test, a simple blood test, in order to diagnose hyperlipidemia. The doctor will work with the patient to determine a healthy cholesterol level and advise on what medications or lifestyle modifications may be needed to achieve it.