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Signs and Symptoms of High Triglycerides: How Can They be Diagnosed and Treated?

Triglycerides are a type of fat, known as a lipid, that circulates in your blood. They are the most common type of fat in your body, deriving from the foods you eat, particularly those high in butter, oils, and other fats. Additionally, triglycerides form from extra calories your body does not immediately need, stored in fat cells. When your body requires energy, it releases these stored triglycerides. 

While some triglycerides are crucial for good health, elevated levels can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. This article aims to shed light on high triglyceride levels, their signs and symptoms, and the methods for diagnosis and treatment.

Triglycerides Normal Range

Triglyceride levels can be classified into several categories according to the Triglyceride lab test:

• Healthy Triglyceride Levels

Below 150 (mg/dL) for adults; below 90 mg/dL for children and teens (ages 10-19).

• Borderline High

Between 150 and 190 mg/dL.

• High Triglyceride Levels

Above 190 mg/dL.

• Very High Triglyceride Levels

Above 500 mg/dL.

 

High Triglycerides

High blood triglycerides are a lipid disorder that may develop independently or in conjunction with other lipid disorders, such as high blood cholesterol or low HDL cholesterol. They are also a component of metabolic syndrome. 

Elevated triglyceride levels are common, impacting up to 25% of adults. Various factors, including specific health conditions, medications, genetic factors, and lifestyle choices, can contribute to high triglyceride levels. Nevertheless, adopting healthy lifestyle changes can significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels.

Symptoms of High Blood Triglycerides

Typically, high blood triglycerides do not manifest noticeable symptoms. However, untreated or uncontrolled high triglyceride levels can lead to severe complications, including coronary heart disease and stroke.

• Borderline High and High Triglycerides

Levels measured without fasting that persist above 175 mg/dL for an extended period can increase the risk of heart complications.

• Very High Triglycerides

Levels exceeding 500 mg/dL can trigger acute pancreatitis, characterized by sudden swelling of the pancreas. This can also result in changes in the eye’s blood vessels, a condition known as lipemia retinalis. Furthermore, very high triglyceride levels can cause skin damage on the back, chest, arms, and legs.

• Extremely High Triglycerides

Levels greater than 1,500 mg/dL may lead to multifactorial chylomicronemia syndrome, where the body stops breaking down fats. Symptoms include:

• Short-term memory loss and spleen swelling
• Stomach pain
• Skin reddening or flushing with alcohol use

Causes of High Triglycerides

There are many causes for elevated triglyceride levels, some of which:

      1. Health Conditions

Several health conditions can contribute to elevated blood triglyceride levels, including:

• Kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Liver disease
• Overweight and obesity
• Thyroid disease
• HIV

     2. Unhealthy Lifestyle

Lifestyle factors can increase triglyceride levels:

• Lack of exercise
• Consumption of foods high in fat and sugar
• Excessive alcohol intake

 

     3. Medications

Some medications can also elevate triglyceride levels, such as those used to treat breast cancer, HIV, and, less frequently, high blood pressure.

      4. Race and Genetic disorders

Certain groups of people are at a higher risk for high blood triglycerides:

• Those with inherited lipid metabolism disorders that hinder lipid breakdown.
• People of South Asian ancestry (e.g., from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka).

How Are High Blood Triglycerides Diagnosed?

Healthcare providers diagnose high blood triglycerides through blood tests. You may need to fast for several hours before the test to ensure accurate results. Below are the lab tests your doctor might ask for:

• Lipoprotein Profile

For healthy adults, a lipoprotein profile, which includes a triglyceride test, is recommended every five years. This frequency increases for older adults, individuals with diabetes, and those with a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease.

• Apolipoprotein B Test 

In cases of borderline high triglyceride levels, an apolipoprotein B test may be performed. 

• Genetic Tests

Genetic testing might be necessary for individuals with:

• Pancreatitis or very high triglyceride levels without diabetes or obesity
• A close relative with very high triglycerides or pancreatitis

High Triglycerides Treatment by Lifestyle Changes 

If diagnosed with high blood triglycerides, healthy lifestyle changes are often recommended:

• Choose Healthy Foods

Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Get Regular Physical Activity

Consult your provider to determine the appropriate level of physical activity.

• Aim for a Healthy Weight

Work towards achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

• Manage Stress

Implement stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or other relaxation practices.

• Quit Smoking

Smoking increases lipid levels, including triglycerides, which subsequently heightens the risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Get Enough Quality Sleep

Ensure you have sufficient and restful sleep each night.

• Limit Alcohol

If your triglyceride levels are very high, your provider may advise you to stop drinking alcohol. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism offers resources for support and treatment to help stop drinking.

By adhering to these lifestyle changes, you can effectively manage your triglyceride levels and reduce the risk of associated health complications.