10 Metabolic Syndrome Symptoms
Symptom #4: Hypertriglyceridemia
Hypertriglyceridemia refers to excessive amounts of triglyceride. These transport fatty acids through the blood after they are absorbed from food. Chronic high triglyceride levels can result in atherosclerosis, despite having normal cholesterol levels. Atherosclerosis refers to the build-up (plaques) of cholesterol, fats and other substances in the walls of blood vessels. These plaques may cause obstruction of blood flow or rupture, causing the acute occlusion of a vessel. Thus, hypertriglyceridemia is considered to be a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It also increases the risk of pancreatitis.
Hypertriglyceridemia may manifest with lesions such as xanthomas and xanthelasmas. These are usually present in severe dyslipidemia. A xanthoma is a deposition of yellowish cholesterol-rich material located anywhere on the body. Xanthelasmas are a subtype of xanthomas. They are depositions of cholesterol that appears to be yellowish under the skin, usually located around the eyelids. Patients who have hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia should be evaluated for metabolic syndrome.
