Hypercholesterolemia vs. Hyperlipidemia

  Hello,  Are hypercholesterolemia and hyperlipidemia interchangeable terms
  for the same condition (high cholesterol) ?
  Thanks

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

Dear Jonathan, thank you for your question.  Hypercholesterolemia and hyperlipidemia
are indeed interchangeable terms that describe the same condition.
Normal values for the cholesterol levels are as follows:
- Total cholesterol  45
- LDL cholesterol < 130
- Triglycerides < 200
Currently, it is generally accepted that everyone over 30 years old have
a complete lipid profile every 5 yrs.  If the lipids are elevated (that could
mean just one of the four levels or two or three), then diet and exercise
should be aggressively instituted.  If additional risk factors for coronary
artery disease are present like hypertension, diabetes, a family history of
premature coronary disease before the age of 55, and smoking; then lipid
lower therapy should be started with medications.  I hope you find this information
useful.
Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Specific
diagnoses and therapies can only be provided by your physician.