What should you know about high LDL and total cholesterol?

LDL carries cholesterol into tissues and can contribute to plaque within artery walls when levels remain high. Total cholesterol combines several cholesterol components, so it does not tell the whole story by itself. Clinicians also consider HDL, triglycerides, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, kidney health, family history and any previous vascular disease. High cholesterol often causes no symptoms; it is a risk factor rather than proof that an artery is blocked.

A [Cholesterol Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/cholesterol-test/) helps establish the pattern. Conditions such as [Obesity](/conditions/obesity/) can occur alongside cholesterol changes, but one does not automatically explain the other.

Review the report with a clinician and ask whether the test was fasting, whether it should be repeated and what target is appropriate for you. Build meals around vegetables, beans, whole grains and unsalted foods, and reduce foods high in saturated fat. Regular activity, weight management where appropriate, avoiding tobacco and taking prescribed treatment all support risk reduction. [Nutrition Counselling](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/nutrition-counselling/) can turn general advice into a practical plan. Some people are offered [Statin Therapy](/treatments/medical-management/statin-therapy/) after an individual assessment.

High cholesterol itself is usually silent and does not normally require emergency treatment. Seek emergency help for pressure or pain in the chest, sudden breathlessness, fainting, new weakness on one side, facial drooping or difficulty speaking. These symptoms may signal [Angina](/conditions/angina/) or a stroke-related emergency and should not wait for a routine cholesterol appointment.

Ask what your complete lipid pattern means, how your other health factors alter risk, and whether family screening is sensible. Ask how food, activity or medicines could change the result, when to repeat testing, and what side effects to report if treatment is offered.