Why is Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) High? Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do
Discover why Lipoprotein(a) levels might be high, what it means for your health, and when to consult a doctor.
Lipoprotein(a), often abbreviated as Lp(a), is a type of lipoprotein found in your blood. It's similar to low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often known as 'bad cholesterol,' but with an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a). High levels of Lp(a) can be concerning because they are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
What is Lipoprotein(a) and Why Does it Matter?
Lipoprotein(a) is a particle in your blood that carries cholesterol, fats, and proteins. It's a combination of LDL cholesterol, which is known to contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, and a specific protein called apolipoprotein(a). Because Lp(a) can promote the formation of blood clots and plaque, high levels are considered a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and stroke.
Causes of High Lipoprotein(a)
The primary cause of high Lp(a) levels is genetic. The amount of Lp(a) in your blood is largely determined by your genes, meaning it can be inherited from your parents. Unlike other types of cholesterol, lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise have little effect on Lp(a) levels. Some medical conditions, like kidney disease or certain types of inflammation, can also contribute to elevated Lp(a) levels, but these are less common.
Symptoms of High Lipoprotein(a)
High Lp(a) levels themselves do not cause symptoms. However, because high Lp(a) is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, symptoms might arise from these conditions. For instance, chest pain, shortness of breath, or symptoms of a stroke like sudden weakness or numbness could be related to underlying cardiovascular issues linked to high Lp(a).
How to Interpret Your Lipoprotein(a) Test
A Lipoprotein(a) test measures the amount of Lp(a) in your blood. This test is usually done if you have a family history of heart disease or if previous tests have shown high cholesterol levels. Typically, Lp(a) levels above 30 mg/dL are considered high, but this can vary depending on the laboratory and the specific method used for testing. It's important to discuss your results with a healthcare provider to understand what they mean for your health.
What Can You Do About High Lipoprotein(a)?
Since Lp(a) levels are largely genetic and not significantly affected by lifestyle changes, treatment options are limited. However, managing other cardiovascular risk factors is crucial. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking. Medications that lower LDL cholesterol, such as statins, can be beneficial in reducing overall cardiovascular risk. In some cases, newer therapies specifically targeting Lp(a) may be considered, but these are not yet widely available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What foods can lower Lipoprotein(a)? Unfortunately, diet has little impact on Lp(a) levels. However, maintaining a heart-healthy diet can help manage other cholesterol levels and reduce overall cardiovascular risk.
Can exercise help reduce Lipoprotein(a) levels? Exercise does not significantly affect Lp(a) levels, but it is beneficial for overall heart health and can help manage other risk factors like high blood pressure and obesity.
Are there medications specifically for lowering Lipoprotein(a)? Currently, there are no medications specifically approved to lower Lp(a) levels. Some treatments are being researched, but they are not yet widely available.
Is high Lipoprotein(a) common? High Lp(a) affects about 20% of the population. It’s more common in people with a family history of heart disease.
Can high Lipoprotein(a) levels be cured? There is no cure for high Lp(a) levels, but managing other cardiovascular risk factors can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
When to See a Doctor
If you have a family history of heart disease or if your cholesterol tests have shown high levels, consider discussing Lp(a) testing with your healthcare provider. It’s especially important to seek medical advice if you experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of a stroke, as these could indicate cardiovascular issues.
Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and any decisions should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.
Read this in another language
This explainer is queued for our doctor panel and hasn't been individually reviewed yet. It's general information, drawn from standard references - always confirm decisions with your own clinician.