High Cholesterol: Causes, Effects, and Management
High cholesterol symptoms and treatment are important to understand because unmanaged cholesterol can silently damage your arteries and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. This guide explains what cholesterol is, what causes it to rise, and how you can lower it through lifestyle changes and medical support.
Cholesterol (known in Māori as matū ngako) is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your bloodstream. It plays an essential role in building cell membranes, producing certain hormones, and aiding in the digestion of fats.
Your Lipid comes from two sources:
- Endogenous production: Your liver naturally produces.Lipid
- Dietary intake: Lipid also enters your body through food, especially animal-based products.
While cholesterol is vital for normal bodily function, an excess in your blood can be dangerous. Elevated Lipid levels can lead to clogged arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Types of Cholesterol
Cholesterol is transported in the blood by molecules called lipoproteins. The two main types are:
1. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) – “Bad” Cholesterol
LDL is often referred to as bad Lipid because high levels can result in fatty deposits (plaques) forming on artery walls. Over time, these plaques can harden, narrow the arteries, or even break off and block blood flow — a key cause of heart attacks and strokes.
2. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) – “Good” Cholesterol
HDL helps remove excess LDL Lipid from the bloodstream. It carries the bad cholesterol back to the liver, where it can be broken down and eliminated. Higher HDL levels are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
3. Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another form of fat found in the blood. They are produced when the body stores unused calories — particularly from sugars and refined carbohydrates — as fat. High triglyceride levels, particularly when combined with low HDL or high LDL, significantly increase the risk of arterial plaque buildup.
Cholesterol Testing
The only way to know your Lipid levels is through a blood test. This is often called a lipid panel or lipid profile and typically measures:
- HDL cholesterol
- LDL cholesterol
- Triglycerides
- Total cholesterol (HDL + LDL)
- Cholesterol ratio (total cholesterol divided by HDL)
Where to Get Tested
Most people have their blood taken at a lab or by a nurse at their general practice. Some pharmacies in New Zealand also offer finger-prick tests that provide quick Lipid readings. If your results are high, you may be referred to a doctor for further testing or treatment.
When Should You Get Tested?
- Adults should have Lipid tests as part of routine heart health checks.
- If you have a family history of high Lipid or heart disease, you may need testing at an earlier age — even during your teenage years.
- Talk to your healthcare provider to determine the right time to start testing.
Understanding Cholesterol Results
Lipid test results usually include:
- Total cholesterol
- HDL cholesterol (good)
- LDL cholesterol (bad)
- Triglycerides
- Total/HDL ratio
What’s a Healthy Cholesterol Level?
There is no one-size-fits-all “normal” range. Your ideal levels depend on your overall risk of heart disease and stroke. If you’re considered high risk, your doctor may recommend an LDL level below 1.8 mmol/L.
What is High Cholesterol?
High Lipid occurs when the balance tips in favor of too much LDL and/or too little HDL in the blood. This imbalance increases your risk of developing plaque in the arteries, which can limit or block blood flow.
Clinically, this condition may be referred to as:
- Hyperlipidaemia – high levels of lipids (fats) in the blood
- Dyslipidaemia – abnormal levels of Lipid or triglycerides
Symptoms
HighLipid usually doesn’t cause symptoms. It’s often referred to as a “silent” condition, making regular blood tests essential for early detection.
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Why High Cholesterol is Dangerous
When Lipid accumulates in your arteries, it forms plaques that reduce blood flow. These plaques can rupture, causing a sudden blockage — which may lead to a heart attack or stroke. This risk is even higher if triglyceride levels are also elevated.
Your healthcare provider will assess your overall cardiovascular risk using your test results, medical history, and other factors to determine the need for treatment.
Causes of High Cholesterol
Modifiable Risk Factors:
You can reduce your Lipid by addressing the following:
- Diet high in saturated fats (e.g., fatty meats, butter, cheese)
- High intake of sugar and refined carbs (e.g., sweets, white bread)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Smoking
- Being overweight, especially with fat around the abdomen
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
These factors are outside your control:
- Genetics (e.g., inherited Lipid disorders)
- Age
- Sex (men are often at higher risk earlier in life)
- Other health conditions (e.g., kidney/liver disease, hypothyroidism)
Genetic Disorders Include:
- Familial hyper Lipid aemia – inherited high Lipid
- Familial hypertriglyceridaemia – inherited high triglycerides
- Familial hyperlipidaemia – inherited abnormal fat levels
If you have a close relative with any of these, talk to your doctor about early testing and treatment options.
How to Lower Cholesterol
If your levels are high, your doctor may suggest changes to your lifestyle, medications, or both.
1. Improve Your Diet
Limit foods high in saturated fat such as:
- Pies and pastries
- Fried foods
- Processed snacks
Eat more:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Legumes, nuts, and seeds
- Fatty fish like salmon or sardines
2. Cut Back on Alcohol
Alcohol can increase both LDL and triglyceride levels. Reducing your intake, or avoiding alcohol altogether, can significantly benefit heart health. If you need help, contact the Alcohol Drug Helpline at 0800 787 797 or visit support.alcohol.org.nz.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking lowers HDL and makes LDL more harmful by increasing its tendency to stick to artery walls. It also directly damages blood vessels. Quitting smoking can help normalize yourLipid levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.
4. Increase Physical Activity
Being more active helps raise HDL and lower LDL. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days.
Simple ideas include:
- Walking or biking instead of driving
- Taking the stairs instead of the lift
- Doing housework, gardening, or dancing
- Walking during lunch breaks
Medications for High Cholesterol
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe medication — most commonly statins — to manage your Lipid
Statins work by reducing your liver’s production of Lipid and helping remove it from your blood. They are generally well-tolerated, but if you experience side effects, speak with your doctor about adjusting the dose or switching to another type.
Important: Never stop taking your medication without medical advice.
Natural Remedies and Supplements
While some natural products claim to lower Lipid it’s vital to consult your doctor before using:
- Herbal supplements
- Vitamins
- Over-the-counter remedies
- Complementary therapies
These products can interact with prescribed medications or reduce their effectiveness. Always inform your healthcare provider about any supplements you take.
Remember, prescribed medication and lifestyle changes are the most effective and evidence-based strategies for lowering Lipid.
Takeaway:
High cholesterol may not show symptoms, but it can quietly damage your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. The good news is, with the right lifestyle changes, regular monitoring, and support from healthcare providers, you can manage your Lipid and protect your heart health.