Having triglycerides above normal levels in the blood can lead to different complications, from vascular diseases to the dangerous inflammation of the pancreas known as pancreatitis, according to the specialist in internal medicine and director of the Vascular Risk Unit at the Olympia medical-surgical center. Quirónsalud, Dr. José María Mostaza.
Hypertriglyceridemia is considered when triglyceride levels are greater than 200 mg/dL. If these levels are exceeded, the probability of suffering vascular problems in the future increases. “The risk does not occur alone. High triglycerides are frequently accompanied by obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes, creating a cocktail that increases the chances of developing cardiovascular diseases,” says the doctor.
Likewise, the expert explains that this problem worsens when triglyceride levels exceed 500 mg/dL. In these cases, in addition to the existence of vascular risk, the possibility of suffering from pancreatitis increases, which can sometimes lead to a medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalization.
In this sense, the specialist remembers that “acute pancreatitis is not a minor matter” and that it “can have serious consequences, both in the short and long term. In extreme cases, it can compromise the patient’s life.”
Likewise, Dr. Mostaza insists on the importance of implementing lifestyle changes to reduce triglyceride levels. In this way, it recommends combining a healthy, low-fat diet with physical exercise and weight control. It is also considered essential not to drink alcohol since it is highly involved in increasing triglycerides in the blood.
Furthermore, in specific cases it is necessary to resort to medication aimed at reducing the risk of pancreatitis and preventing long-term vascular complications. “Detecting high triglycerides in time and taking corrective measures not only protects against serious complications, but also improves the quality of life of those who are at risk,” says the expert.
Finally, the doctor insists that the key to addressing this complication is not waiting for symptoms to appear since “elevated triglycerides rarely present visible signs until the damage has already been done.” Therefore, “prevention, through regular check-ups, is essential to guarantee a healthy life without complications,” he concludes.
I would like to thank you for taking the time to chat with me today about hypertriglyceridemia and its potential complications. The article focuses on the risks associated with high triglyceride levels in the blood, such as vascular diseases and pancreatitis.
Firstly, could you please elaborate on the common risk factors that contribute to hypertriglyceridemia and how they potentially lead to these complications?
Secondly, the article mentions that triglyceride levels above 500 mg/dL significantly increase the risk of pancreatitis. As a medical professional, how do you assess the severity of pancreatitis in patients with high triglyceride levels, and do you believe that there is room for improvement in the current diagnostic and treatment protocols for this condition?
Thirdly, do you believe that lifestyle changes are enough to manage hypertriglyceridemia, or should medication also be considered in certain cases? If so, what role should diet and exercise play in managing the condition, and what are some specific dietary recommendations for individuals with high triglyceride levels?
Lastly, what strategies do you recommend to patients who may be at risk of developing hypertriglyceridemia but are currently asymptomatic? How important is regular monitoring and early intervention in preventing long-term complications?
