Causes and risk factors
This is a genetic disorder where the exact cause is not known. Diabetes, thyroid disease, obesity are contributing risk factors.
Clinical presentation
Patient is mostly asymptomatic. There may be no physical symptoms. In some cases, chest pain is experienced by the patient. Angina, stroke, cramps, coronary artery disease symptoms are commonly seen. Obesity is seen in patients of familial combined hyperlipidemia.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Lipid profile is done, i.e., serum cholesterol levels [total, HDL and LDL] and serum triglyceride levels. Apolipoprotein B100 is required.
Treatment
This disorder cannot be cured completely, but a combination of a healthy lifestyle and medication will help to reduce the risk of heart disease and other complications. Lifestyle measures include low-fat diet, regular exercise, and loss of excess weight. Medications like statins, bile acid-sequestering resins, fibrates, and nicotinic acid contribute further to the treatment.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating familial combined hyperlipidemia. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates is also found to be effective in treating familial combined hyperlipidemia.
