Are Your Silent Symptoms Hiding Heart Risks? Understand Lipoprotein(a) and Your Cardiovascular Health

Could Your Everyday Symptoms Mean More Than You Think?

Do you find yourself unusually tired, getting short of breath, or noticing mild chest discomfort? Perhaps your cholesterol came back high at your last GP check, or heart disease runs in your family. These symptoms can seem ordinary or stress-related but, especially in the UK where cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death (NHS), even subtle clues can be important.

What Is Lipoprotein(a) and Why Should You Care?

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a specific type of cholesterol particle in your blood. While you may be familiar with normal cholesterol tests, Lp(a) is rarely checked unless you request it. High levels can be genetic, often pass silently through families, and sharply increase your risk for heart attack or stroke — sometimes even if you’re otherwise fit and healthy.

About 1 in 5 people in the UK may have raised Lp(a) without realising it.

Common Symptoms That Could Be Linked to Heart Health

• Unexplained fatigue or breathlessness
• History of high cholesterol despite a healthy lifestyle
• Family members with early heart disease
• Mild chest pain or tightness at rest or during exercise

Should You Worry If You Have These Symptoms?

Most people with high Lp(a) have no symptoms until a major event occurs, like a heart attack. That’s why it’s called a "silent risk factor". If you have unexplained symptoms or a family history of heart disease, knowing your Lp(a) status can help shape your future health. The good news is, today you can get checked from your own home with an At-Home Lipoprotein(a) Blood Test Kit from Mayfield Clinic, with rapid results and full UK support.

What Can I Do Today?

• Maintain a balanced diet low in saturated fat
• Exercise regularly (walking, cycling, swimming)
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Keep up with your GP for regular cardiovascular checkups
• Consider proactive testing for Lp(a) if you or your family are at risk

How to Get Tested in the UK

At Mayfield Clinic, you can buy a convenient home testing kit with self-sampling, or book an in-person blood test at our clinic. Either way, you get results in just one day, interpreted by UK medical professionals.

Ready to Take Action?

Understand your risks before symptoms become serious. Order your at-home Lipoprotein(a) kit today or email us to book a private in-person test.

This article is for information purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.