How do I know if I have high cholesterol?
High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. You can feel well and still have it, so the only way to know your cholesterol levels is to have a blood test. nhs.uk, heartuk.org.uk
The test is simple. A healthcare professional may take a small blood sample from your arm or use a finger-prick test. Depending on the type of test, you may receive your results straight away or within a few days.
Once you know your levels, your GP, nurse or pharmacist can explain what the numbers mean and whether you need to take any action.
Who should have a cholesterol test?
Speak to your GP surgery about a cholesterol test if:
- You are over 40 and have not had your cholesterol checked before
- You are overweight
- You have high blood pressure, diabetes or High cholesterol or heart disease runs in your family
- Another condition that may affect your heart health
- You have previously had a high cholesterol result
- You are concerned about your cholesterol
You may also be able to have a cholesterol test at a pharmacy, although you might need to pay for it. nhs.uk
If you live in England and are aged 40 to 74, you may be eligible for a free NHS Health Check. This usually includes a cholesterol test and is offered every five years to eligible adults who do not already have certain health conditions. nhs.uk
If you take cholesterol-lowering medicine or have an existing health condition, your healthcare team will tell you how often your cholesterol should be checked.
Can anyone have high cholesterol?
Yes. High cholesterol can affect anyone, including people who are active, eat a balanced diet or are a healthy weight. heartuk.org.uk
Several factors can affect your cholesterol. These include:
- Eating a diet high in saturated fat
- Not being physically active
- Smoking
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Carrying excess weight
- Getting older
- Some health conditions and medicines
- Your family history and genes
Some causes can be changed, while others cannot. High cholesterol can run in families, so it is important to tell your GP if a close relative has high cholesterol or developed heart disease at a younger age. nhs.uk, heartuk.org.uk, heartuk.org.uk
What happens if my cholesterol is high?
Try not to worry. A high cholesterol result does not mean that you have heart disease.
Your healthcare professional will consider your cholesterol alongside other factors, such as your age, blood pressure, family history and any existing health conditions. They may also estimate your risk of having a heart attack or stroke over the next 10 years. nhs.uk, nhs.uk
Depending on your results, they may recommend:
- Eating less saturated fat and choosing more unsaturated fat
- Eating more fruit, vegetables and fibre-rich foods
- Becoming more active
- Getting support to stop smoking
- Taking cholesterol-lowering medicine
- Having another cholesterol test after a set period
You do not need to make every change at once. Start with one or two manageable steps and ask your healthcare professional for support if you need it.
Find out more
Learn more about what cholesterol is, what your test results mean and the steps you can take to lower it.
You can also download our free Cholesterol Lowering Starter Kit for practical food swaps, recipes and everyday tips
*Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats in the diet has been shown to lower blood cholesterol. High cholesterol is a risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. If you have questions about your cholesterol levels or health, speak to your GP or another qualified healthcare professional.
