High cholesterol and abnormal lipid levels rarely cause obvious symptoms, yet they quietly increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious conditions. Many people are surprised to learn their numbers are off during routine lab work, even when they feel well. At Prima Medicine, lipid disorders are addressed through thoughtful medical evaluation that looks beyond a single test result to understand your overall metabolic and cardiovascular risk.
Lipid disorder care at Prima Medicine is overseen by Dr. Janice E. McMillan, MD, a board-certified endocrinologist with extensive experience in metabolic and hormone-related conditions. As part of a physician-directed, multispecialty practice, Prima Medicine offers coordinated care across all locations, providing patients throughout Northern Virginia, including Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, with consistent support for long-term lipid management.
What Are Lipid Disorders?
Lipid disorders involve abnormal levels of fats in the blood, most commonly cholesterol and triglycerides. These fats play important roles in the body, but when levels are too high or unbalanced, they can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. Endocrinology care is especially important when lipid abnormalities are influenced by hormones, genetics, or metabolic conditions.
Symptoms of Lipid Disorders
Most lipid disorders cause no noticeable symptoms until they lead to a severe medical event. In rare cases, physical signs such as fatty deposits around the eyes or tendons may appear. Because early symptoms are usually absent, regular blood testing plays a key role in detection.
Lipid Disorder Evaluation and Treatment
Evaluation includes detailed cholesterol and triglyceride testing, review of family history, and assessment of related conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disease. Dr. McMillan generally considers trends over time rather than isolated results for the most accurate picture. Treatment plans may include medication, lifestyle guidance, and regular monitoring to reduce long-term cardiovascular risk while supporting overall metabolic health.
Why Choose Prima Medicine for Lipid Disorder Treatment?
Dr. Janice E. McMillan brings a strong background in endocrinology and metabolism to lipid disorder care at Prima Medicine. Her experience as an Assistant Professor and Clinical Endocrinologist at West Virginia University prepared her to manage complex metabolic conditions and cardiovascular risk factors. Her fellowship training in Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of Virginia, where she served as Chief Fellow, honed her knowledge of hormone-related disorders. Patients benefit from her evidence-based approach and clear communication style, as well as the coordinated support of Prima Medicine’s multispecialty care model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Supporting Long-Term Heart and Metabolic Health
Lipid disorders require early attention and consistent follow-up to reduce future health risks. Dr. McMillan provides comprehensive lipid disorder care at Prima Medicine across Northern Virginia. To discuss lipid disorder evaluation or treatment, call (703) 870-3750 or book an appointment online at one of our four locations: Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, or Tysons.
