In most cases a person will not know they have high triglycerides unless a test is done. High triglyceride levels by themselves do not cause symptoms. But if your high triglycerides are caused by a genetic condition, you may have visible fatty deposits under the skin (xanthomas). In very rare cases, people who have high triglyceride levels may develop pancreatitis, which can cause sudden vomiting, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain and fever.

High triglycerides rarely occur on their own, and are usually connected with other conditions. High triglycerides are often part of a condition called the metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is the combination of increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, being low in good cholesterol (HDL) and high in triglycerides. The sufferer is generally overweight and has an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke.