The lipid profile is a group of blood tests ordered to determine the risk of coronary heart disease. It typically includes total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides. Together, with a doctor's assessment, these tests have been shown to be good indicators of whether someone is likely to have a heart attack or stroke caused by blockage of blood vessels or atherosclerosis.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for heart disease include lipid profile, sex, weight, age, previous cardiac events, lifestyle and smoking. Some risk factors are modifiable, and some are not. Lipids can be reduced by diet and exercise modifications and by taking prescription medications. Specifically, low HDL and high LDL levels are associated with increased cardiac risk.
Lipid-Lowering Treatment
The American Heart Association specifically recommends a diet low in fat, particularly saturated and trans fats, enriched in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish, and low in added sugar and salt. This approach will reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering triglycerides and maintaining healthy body weight. Quitting smoking and becoming more active both have positive outcomes on lipid levels.
Medications
A number of medications on the market will assist in lowering blood lipid levels. Some of the classes of drugs used for this purpose include statins, fibrates and niacin. Each has its own way of lowering blood lipids and profile of side effects. Medications can react with one another, and some medications can make one problem better while worsening another. Your physician and pharmacist are the best resources when it comes to medications.
Genetics
The American Heart Association reports that LDL is a natural product produced and used in the body. Some people inherit genetics that tell their body to produce too much. The amount of LDL in the bloodstream is directly linked to the risk of heart disease. A variety of interventions may be used to lower LDL and reduce risk. A team of health care providers is effective in treating and preventing high blood lipid levels.
Symptoms and Monitoring
According to the AHA, many people have high lipid levels and have no symptoms at all. Often, by the time symptoms occur, it is too late to make critical changes. Annual blood testing is a good idea. Many physicians do this with an annual check-up. Even if your blood lipids are good right now, making healthy choices will ensure that they stay within target range in the future.
