High Cholesterol
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-22. See how we check.
High cholesterol usually causes no symptoms but, over time, raises the risk of heart disease and stroke, which is why it's picked up through a blood test rather than how you feel. Diet, activity, and sometimes medication can bring it down effectively.
Overview
Cholesterol is a fatty substance the body needs, but too much of certain types (particularly LDL, sometimes called "bad" cholesterol) in the blood can build up in artery walls over time, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
It's usually found through a routine blood test rather than any symptoms, and is influenced by diet, activity levels, weight, smoking, alcohol, and genetics.
What may help
- Eat more fibre, fruit, and vegetables, and cut back on saturated fat
- Stay physically active — regular exercise helps raise "good" (HDL) cholesterol
- If you smoke, quitting has a meaningful effect on cardiovascular risk generally
- Limit alcohol and maintain a healthy weight
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- You've never had your cholesterol checked and are due a general health check
- You have a family history of high cholesterol or early heart disease
- You've been told your cholesterol is raised and want to discuss next steps
- You're prescribed cholesterol-lowering medication and have questions or side effects
When it could be an emergency
- High cholesterol itself is not an emergency, but chest pain, breathlessness, or symptoms of a heart attack or stroke always are — seek emergency help immediately for those
If any of these apply, don't wait — check Red Flags for your country's emergency number, or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "High Cholesterol" in the appCommon questions
Does high cholesterol cause symptoms?
No, not usually — it's typically picked up through a blood test, which is why periodic checks matter even if you feel well.
Can diet alone lower cholesterol enough?
For some people, yes; others also need medication (such as statins) alongside diet and lifestyle changes — this is best assessed individually with a GP.
Is all cholesterol bad?
No — cholesterol is essential for the body, and "good" (HDL) cholesterol actually helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. It's the balance between types that matters.
Read more on the NHS website →
General information only, last checked 2026-09-22 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. Content is checked against current published guidance from official public health sources — see how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.