What does a lipidologist do?
Written by:
Pathologist
Published: 21/11/2017
Edited by: Jay Staniland
A consultant lipidologist is someone who treats patients with high cholesterol, and high triglycerides, commonly known as blood fats. High cholesterol, especially when associated with increased bad cholesterol, known as LDL-cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein), is linked with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and blockage of the arteries, especially those that supply the legs.
How does a lipidologist prevent the development of future problems?
The role of a lipidologist is to help you manage your cholesterol and triglyceride levels. There are some inherited problems where people have very high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. This problem can be passed through the whole family, and a family clinic may be offered by the lipidologist, to treat the whole family and help to cut down the blood fat levels.
Cascade testing
This is a form of testing provided by a lipidologist, where the whole family may be tested for high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Steps will then be discussed and put in place to help reduce the levels for the family.
Putting these steps in place is vital in reducing the risk of heart attack, or pancreatitis.
Treatment for patients on cholesterol medication
A lipidologist will also help with the treatment of patients that are having difficulty taking cholesterol medication, due to being intolerant of the medication, have associated muscle aches and/or liver problems.
It remains important to keep cholesterol and triglyceride levels low in these patients, to reduce their chances of developing the problems associated with high blood fat levels.
Triglycerides can lead to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, as the triglycerides can change the composition of the cholesterol, meaning it can build up within the vascular system.
A lipidologist provides a comprehensive lipid service, including lifestyle assessment, lifestyle advice, and pharmacological therapy as appropriate.
To make an appointment with a consultant lipidologist, click here.