User:Mr. Ibrahem/Hypertriglyceridemia

Hypertriglyceridemia is high (hyper-) blood levels (-emia) of triglycerides. High triglycerides itself is usually symptomless, although high levels may be associated with skin lesions known as xanthomas. Complications may include cardiovascular disease and pancreatitis. Generally only severe disease results in pancreatitis. High triglycerides may occur alone or with other lipid disorders.

Most cases result from a combination of factors. Common risk factors include obesity, diabetes, genetics, and metabolic syndrome. Other risks include alcohol, hypothyroidism, kidney problems, lupus, and certain medications such as protease inhibitors and birth control pills. Diagnosis is based on fasting triglycerides of greater than than 150 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/L). Moderate disease is 150 to 1,000 mg/dL (1.7 to 11.4 mmol/L) while severe disease is greater than 1,000 mg/dL (>11.4 mmol/L).

Treatment includes not drinking alcohol, weight loss, avoiding simple carbohydrates, and controlling blood sugar. Medications are generally not required, though fibrates and omega-3 fatty acids may help. In those with pancreatitis due to high triglycerides treatment is with intravenous fluids, insulin, and potentially plasmapheresis. High blood triglycerides affects about 30% of people in the United States and is more common in males and older people. Very high levels affect about 2% of people.