[This content is a story-based medical science article, please read it rationally, and do not sit down]
Aunt Li is a regular visitor to my clinic, a typical white-collar worker in a big city, who is busy all day long. That day, she dragged her tired body into the consultation room, her face full of anxiety and uneasiness.
"Doctor, I've been feeling something wrong lately. Every time I finished eating, I was drowsy, and my chest was stuffy and I was out of breath after walking a few steps. I can't be seriously ill, right? Aunt Li said worriedly.
I carefully inquired about Aunt Li's symptoms and lifestyle habits, and I had a rough judgment in my mind. "Aunt Li, have you had a physical examination recently? Have you ever had a lipid test? I asked.
Aunt Li shook her head: "Oh, I'm usually too busy with work, how can I have time for a physical examination." Besides, I look pretty healthy, so I shouldn't have any big problems, right? "
I smiled and explained, "Aunt Li, the symptoms you just described are likely to be a manifestation of hyperlipidemia. Let's do a detailed examination first and see the specific situation. "
The results of the examination were unexpected, and Aunt Li's blood lipid index was far beyond the normal range. Looking at the string of numbers, Aunt Li was stunned: "Oh my God, how can I get high blood lipids?" I don't usually think I'm so fat! "
I patiently explained to Aunt Li: "High blood lipids are not necessarily directly related to weight. You have a stressful job, an irregular diet, and a lack of exercise, which are all risk factors for high blood lipids. What's more, hyperlipidemia often has no obvious symptoms, and many people suffer from it unconsciously. "
Aunt Li nodded thoughtfully after hearing this: "Then the symptoms you just talked about, are they really related to high blood lipids?" "
I smiled and said, "That's right, these are all symptoms that can be caused by high blood lipids." I feel particularly sleepy after eating because the fat content in the blood is too high, the blood becomes viscous, and the blood flow slows down, resulting in insufficient oxygen supply to the brain. Chest tightness and shortness of breath may be a sign that the blood vessels have begun to become clogged with fat and the blood supply to the heart is insufficient. "
Aunt Li's eyes widened after hearing this: "Oh my God, I always thought that these were just normal reactions to being too tired from work!" So what to do? "
I comforted: "Don't worry, although hyperlipidemia is troublesome, as long as it is detected in time, active treatment can be completely controlled." "
Next, I formulated a detailed treatment plan for Aunt Li. In addition to medication, I put a special emphasis on lifestyle modifications.
"Aunt Li, to control high blood lipids, it is not enough to take medicine. You have to start with your daily life. "For example, in the diet, we should pay attention to reducing the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods and eat more vegetables and fruits. No matter how busy you are at work, make sure to do at least half an hour of aerobic exercise every day. Also, be sure to quit smoking, limit alcohol, and get enough sleep. "
Aunt Li nodded earnestly when she heard this: "I understand, doctor." Looks like I'm going to have to adjust my lifestyle. "
I smiled with relief: "That's right, a healthy lifestyle is the key to controlling hyperlipidemia. Remember, prevention is better than cure. Even if you don't have high blood lipids, you should develop good lifestyle habits, regular medical checkups, and early detection of problems. "
When Aunt Li left the consultation room, the anxiety on her face had dissipated a lot, and it was replaced by hope and determination for the future. I know this is just the beginning of her health and there is still a long way to go.
High blood lipids are like a time bomb lurking in our bodies, which can lead to serious health problems before we know it. It not only increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, but can also lead to pancreatitis, fatty liver and other diseases. The scary thing is that many people don't realize they have high blood cholesterol until they have serious complications.
So in addition to those symptoms that Aunt Li encountered, what other signs might indicate hyperlipidemia?
Yellow patches appear around the eyes, which can be a sign of cholesterol deposition under the skin. Small yellow bumps on the palms of the hands are also a sign of cholesterol buildup. If you notice these symptoms, be sure to pay attention to them and seek medical attention promptly.
In addition, frequent numbness and lightheadedness in the limbs may also be a sign of dyslipidemia. High blood lipids can cause these discomforts by causing blood viscosity to increase and affect blood circulation.
It is worth noting that many people think that only fat people will get hyperlipidemia, which is actually a misunderstanding. Even people of normal weight or even on the thin side may have hyperlipidemia. It's all about what we eat and how we live.
Speaking of which, I have to remind everyone that the modern fast-paced lifestyle is quietly becoming an accomplice to hyperlipidemia. Fast food culture is prevalent, and high-fat, high-calorie foods abound. Long-term sedentary inactivity, excessive smoking and alcohol, these are all important factors that lead to hyperlipidemia.
I often tell patients that treating hyperlipidemia is like fighting a long-term battle. It requires little and every bit of effort in our daily lives and requires us to take responsibility for our own health.
In terms of diet, we need to learn to choose healthy foods. Eat more vegetables and fruits rich in dietary fiber, and choose foods rich in unsaturated fatty acids, such as olive oil, nuts, etc. Reduce the intake of high-cholesterol foods such as organ meats and egg yolks. The cooking method is also very important, try to choose low-fat cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, and stewing.
Exercise is another important means of controlling blood lipids. Consistent aerobic exercise can not only help with weight control, but also raise levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL). At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, etc., is very effective in controlling blood lipids.
In addition, it is important to maintain a good routine and rest habits. Adequate sleep can help the body's metabolic balance and reduce stress response, which is beneficial to the control of blood lipids. It is indispensable to quit smoking and limit alcohol, which will adversely affect blood lipid metabolism.
Speaking of which, I remembered Aunt Li's follow-up visit. After three months of conditioning, her indicators have improved significantly. What makes me even more gratifying is that her whole mental state has improved.
"Doctor, I now insist on exercising every day, and I have taken care of my diet. Not only has the blood lipids dropped, but even the work efficiency has improved! Aunt Li said excitedly.
Looking at Aunt Li's new look, I deeply felt a sense of accomplishment as a doctor. Our work isn't just about treating diseases, it's about helping people regain a healthy lifestyle and a love of life.
The treatment of hyperlipidemia is a long-term process that requires the joint efforts of patients and doctors. As doctors, we need to patiently and meticulously answer patients' questions and formulate personalized treatment plans. As a patient, you should build confidence in overcoming the disease, strictly follow the doctor's instructions, and adhere to a healthy lifestyle.
I remember a patient once asked me, "Doctor, can I still eat meat in my life?" I smiled and replied, "Of course, the key is to learn to choose and learn to control." A healthy life is not an ascetic, but one that learns balance and moderation. "
High blood lipids are like a small alarm bell in our body, reminding us to pay attention to our health and learn to take care of our body. When we hear this alarm bell, don't panic and don't ignore it. We must face it with a scientific attitude and overcome it with positive actions.
Health is our most valuable asset. Whether it is hyperlipidemia, or any other disease, it should not be an obstacle for us to enjoy a good life. Let's work together to build a strong fortress against disease with a healthy lifestyle. I believe that as long as we persevere, we will be able to overcome hyperlipidemia and usher in a healthier and better life!
[This content is a story-based medical and health science article, and any name, place name, or event that appears in the article except for the health science content is artistic processing, and it is not intended to offend or belittle any individual, group or organization. If there is any similarity, it is purely a coincidence, please read it rationally. 】