Yes, high triglycerides can cause fatigue if left untreated.

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood that comes from the foods we eat.

While a high level does not typically cause any symptoms, it can result in conditions like coronary heart disease. Over time, this can lead to symptoms like fatigue and overall tiredness.

When triglyceride levels increase, so does the risk of developing coronary heart disease. If heart disease progresses, it can prevent enough blood from pumping around the body.

This can disrupt vital bodily functions and lower the amount of oxygen delivered to your muscles and tissues.

If left untreated, it can result in symptoms such as fatigue and severe tiredness, making daily activities like walking difficult.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has broken down the types of triglyceride levels into four categories:

  • Healthy: below 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)
  • Borderline high: between 150 mg/dL and 199 mg/dL
  • High: between 200 mg/dL and 499 mg/dL
  • Very high: above 500 mg/dL

A healthcare professional may diagnose you as having high blood triglycerides if your levels regularly reach 150 mg/dL or higher.

If you have high triglyceride levels, certain lifestyle measures may help, such as:

In some cases, a healthcare professional may also recommend medication to help lower your levels.

Medications may include:

  • statins, such as atorvastatin or rosuvastatin
  • concentrated omega-3 fatty acid supplements
  • fibrates, such as fenofibrate, gemfibrozil, and fenofibric acid

It’s important to note that many of these medications only work when incorporated with lifestyle measures, such as a healthy diet.