Hyperlipidemia & Elevated Lp(a)

A Warning Sign You Shouldn’t Ignore

High cholesterol gets talked about a lot. But another quiet risk can do just as much damage: lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). Most people don’t know they have it. There are no symptoms. But if it’s high, your arteries may already be at risk.

At BaleDoneen, we don’t wait for heart attacks to happen. We find and treat problems early. That includes checking for high Lp(a) and other hidden markers like apoB.

What Is Hyperlipidemia?

Hyperlipidemia means you have too much fat in your blood. Most of the time, this shows up as high LDL cholesterol. But sometimes, it’s Lp(a) that causes trouble. This isn’t picked up on a basic cholesterol test.

What Is Lp(a)?

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a type of LDL cholesterol. It’s linked to a higher chance of heart attacks, strokes, and blocked arteries.

Lp(a) is sticky. It can cause inflammation and damage inside your arteries. Over time, this leads to atherosclerosis which is where plaque builds up and blood flow slows down.

Most people never hear about Lp(a) until it’s too late. Standard tests don’t include it unless you ask.

How Do You Know If It’s High?

We use advanced blood tests like lipid particle panels to check your levels. We also look at your apoB which is another marker that shows the number of harmful particles in your blood.

At BaleDoneen, we use labs that go deeper than routine checks.

Hyperlipidemia, elevated lipo (a)

Why This Matters

High Lp(a) is a major cardiac risk. It can lead to:

  • Heart attacks
  • Strokes
  • Arteriosclerotic heart disease

  • Coronary artery disease (CAD)

And because it’s mostly inherited, you can’t bring it down with diet alone.

Can You Lower Lp(a)?

You can’t lower Lp(a) the same way you lower other types of cholesterol. But that doesn’t mean nothing helps.

We guide patients through proven steps to:

  • Calm artery inflammation
  • Control other risks like LDL, blood sugar, and blood pressure
  • Strengthen artery walls and blood flow
  • Watch changes through repeat testing

Some people may also need statins or other medicine. But the first step is knowing your numbers.

How BaleDoneen Helps

We don’t guess. We test. Then we build a plan that fits your life.

Here’s how we help patients with hyperlipidemia and high Lp(a):

  • Run advanced cholesterol tests like apoB and Lp(a)
  • Check for plaque with artery scans
  • Offer food and lifestyle plans that reduce risk
  • Track your progress with regular follow-ups
  • Adjust care as needed to protect your heart and brain

Our method is built on science and real results. We’ve helped thousands lower risk—and avoid the worst.

What Should You Eat?

A heart-friendly diet doesn’t need to be hard. Start here:

  • More vegetables
  • Fish like salmon (for omega-3s)
  • Whole grains
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Olive oil instead of butter
  • Less sugar and fried food

This kind of food helps lower inflammation, improve cholesterol levels, and protect your arteries.

Is Lp(a) Hereditary?

Yes. Lp(a) levels mostly come from your genes. If a parent has it, you might too.

You may feel fine. But if your Lp(a) is high, your heart is still at risk. Testing is the only way to know.

What About Symptoms?

High Lp(a) doesn’t cause symptoms. But over time, it can lead to problems like:

  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Stroke or heart attack

By the time you feel something, it may be serious. That’s why early testing matters.

Real Results

Our patients have seen:

  • Lower apoB and CRP levels
  • Less plaque in their arteries
  • Better blood flow
  • Reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes

With the right steps, you can protect your heart even if your Lp(a) is high.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lipoprotein(a) and how is it different from LDL cholesterol?

Can elevated Lp(a) be treated with lifestyle changes?

Is elevated Lp(a) hereditary?

How is elevated Lp(a) diagnosed?

What are the risks of untreated hyperlipidemia?