In the presence of insulin resistance which is common to type two diabetes and metabolic
syndrome, a continued hyperglycemic state ensues. Prolonged hyperglycemia can lead to micro-vascular and macro-vascular disease, resulting in damage to nerves and blood vessels in numerous body systems (Culver, 2007).
Type two diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity can increase our patient’s risk of developing atherosclerosis. We believe that this is true because our patient has elevated triglycerides as well as LDL levels. Let’s look closer at the role of hyperlipidemia and the development of atherosclerosis.
Hyperlipidemia is a condition that affects millions of Americans. Cholesterol and triglycerides are lipids that are needed by the human body to function properly. When increased levels of these lipids are present, it puts the individual at an increased risk for a disease called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the formation of a hard plaque made up of lipids on the walls of an artery (McCance and Huether 2006). Individuals that have hyperlipidemia as well as diabetes are at an even higher risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Cholesterol and triglycerides are important in forming steroid hormones, bile acids, and transferring energy (Wittert 2009). The two main types of cholesterol are low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). According to Wittert (2009), LDL cholesterol travels in the bloodstream carrying other types of cholesterol. If LDL cholesterol remains in the blood for too long or in high levels, it can become attached to the sides of the blood vessels. This can greatly increase a patient’s risk for atherosclerosis. HDL cholesterol is made in the liver and intestines. This type of cholesterol is the healthy type and is responsible for reversing the transport of cholesterol.
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