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Editor’s note: February is National Heart Month
As the surgical technician rolled my hospital bed into the frigid operating room, my anxiety increased and questions ran through my mind as to why this was happening again.
Within four months, doctors placed four stents to restore proper blood flow to my heart. This step was even more powerful than the previous one. This time my right arm felt like it was on fire and I could feel the cardiac catheter inching its way from my right wrist to the left side of my chest. All I could do was lie still and pray that I would survive this unexpected heart disease diagnosis.
Although the death rate in the county I lived in was improving, it didn’t make me feel any better. My cardiologist couldn’t explain why I was experiencing another heart event in such a short period of time. The uncertainty took a toll on me mentally, making it difficult to sleep for fear of not waking up.
A week later I received a sign from God. I happened to come across actor Malik Yoba being interviewed on a radio show. He talked about quadruple bypass heart surgery and mentioned elevated lipoprotein (a) levels. I immediately began researching lipoprotein(a). Could this be the reason for my rapid progress? Why didn’t the cardiologist test for this?
I insisted on my health and requested a blood test to measure my lipoprotein(a) levels. bingo! My level was very high.
So whether you have heart-related issues or not, keep reading to find out what I learned about lipoprotein (A), what I learned about myself, and why you should get tested. Discover.
1. What is lipoprotein(a)?
After the heart incident, I learned that lipoprotein(a) plays an important role in heart disease. These sticky particles are made of fats and proteins in the bloodstream and cause plaque to build up in the arteries. High levels of lipoprotein(a) increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. Understanding this has become an important part of managing your heart health.
2. What do I not know about my family history?
I have discovered that genetics influences lipoprotein (a) levels and that these levels can vary widely from person to person. I called and texted and asked health questions about deceased and living family members. This was a crucial first step in assessing my own heart risk.
3. How could I have known what to ask?
Despite its importance, lipoprotein(a) was never included in my routine medical exams. Although my LDL and HDL cholesterol levels are normal, my untested lipoprotein (a) levels were a hidden risk factor, and my potential cardiovascular risks remained unknown for years. It is important to note that lipoprotein (a) testing must be specifically requested by the patient and is not necessarily covered by insurance plans.
4. How can I manage high lipoprotein (a) levels?
It turns out that there is no absolute way to lower lipoprotein(a) levels. Current treatments focus on reducing overall cardiovascular risk factors by adopting a healthier lifestyle, managing cholesterol levels, and taking prescription medications. There are no FDA-approved drugs yet to lower lipoprotein(a) levels. However, clinical trials are underway to test potential drug treatments.
5. Should I fire my cardiologist?
I now include regular monitoring of lipoprotein (a) levels in my heart health management. Since a cardiologist could not provide effective treatment, I requested a referral to a specialist known as a lipid specialist. Unfortunately, there are very few appointments available and you won’t be able to see a specialist until October 2024. But gaining information about my lipoprotein (a) levels has allowed for a more personalized strategy for managing my heart disease.
Facing the complexities of heart health can be difficult, especially when you have incomplete information. My experience with high lipoprotein (a) levels is a reminder to take ownership of your health, recommend comprehensive testing, and seek professional care when necessary.
I admit that this process is scary, but now more than ever I am forced to say yes. It’s about pursuing journalism, it’s about being vulnerable, it’s about having a puppy, it’s about embracing life to the fullest.
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