Hypertriglyceridemia

Description

A high level of a type of fat in the blood called triglycerides.

Overview

Hypertriglyceridemia may play a role in hardening of the arteries. This raises the risk of heart attack or stroke. The condition also can raise the risk of an inflamed pancreas, called pancreatitis.

Symptoms

Hypertriglyceridemia usually causes no symptoms. Some people may get waxy growths on the skin called xanthomas. Other people may develop a condition called chylomicronemia syndrome that can cause short-term memory loss and stomach pain.

Treatment

Hypertriglyceridemia treatment often includes lifestyle changes such as weight loss, a healthy diet, physical activity, exercise and less alcohol use. Cholesterol-lowering medicines may be needed. Sometimes medicines specifically to lower triglycerides may be needed.