High cholesterol living in adults

Overview

High cholesterol is when you have too much of a fatty substance called cholesterol in your blood. It can build up in your blood vessels and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Yes, high cholesterol is very common in adults. About 2 in 5 adults have it.

It affects adults of all ages, but becomes more common as you get older. It can run in families and is also linked to diet, exercise, and other health conditions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• High cholesterol itself does not cause symptoms. Most people only find out from a blood test.

Symptoms in children

• In children, high cholesterol is rare, but if it runs in the family, there may be fatty bumps on the skin or around the eyes.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults also usually have no symptoms from high cholesterol alone. However, they are at higher risk for complications like heart disease.

Causes

Main causes

• Eating too many foods high in saturated fats (like red meat, butter, and fried foods)
• Not getting enough physical activity
• Smoking cigarettes or using tobacco products
• Drinking too much alcohol

Risk factors

• Having a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
• Being overweight or obese
• Having diabetes or prediabetes
• Getting older (risk increases with age)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, call your local emergency number immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are 40 or older, have risk factors, or have a family history of high cholesterol, ask your doctor for a cholesterol check.
• If you have already been diagnosed, have regular follow-ups as recommended.

Diagnosis

A simple blood test called a lipid profile measures your cholesterol levels.

Tests that may be done

• Lipid profile blood test (often done after fasting, though non-fasting is sometimes used)

What to expect at your appointment

A healthcare professional will take a blood sample from your arm. It is quick and usually painless. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything except water for 9–12 hours before the test. Results usually come back in a few days.

Treatment

Treatment aims to lower your cholesterol to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. It involves lifestyle changes and, if needed, medications.

Self-care at home

• Eat a heart-healthy diet: more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins; less saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
• Get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week (like brisk walking or cycling).
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Quit smoking if you smoke
• Limit alcohol to no more than one drink per day for women and two for men.

Medical treatments

If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower your cholesterol. Common types include statins, which reduce cholesterol production in the liver, and other drugs that help your body remove cholesterol. Always take medications exactly as prescribed and discuss any side effects with your doctor.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat high cholesterol itself. However, if high cholesterol has caused severe blockages in your arteries, you may need a procedure like angioplasty or bypass surgery. Your doctor will discuss these options if needed.

Living with this condition

High cholesterol is a long-term condition, but it is very manageable. You can live a full, healthy life by making heart-healthy choices and working with your healthcare team.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat a balanced diet low in saturated fats.
• Stay physically active most days of the week.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques, hobbies, or talking to someone you trust.

Diet and exercise

A heart-healthy diet includes plenty of fiber (oats, beans, apples), healthy fats (avocado, nuts, olive oil), and oily fish (like salmon) at least twice a week. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days. Even small changes make a big difference.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Having high cholesterol can cause worry about your heart health. It is normal to feel anxious or stressed. Talking to your doctor or a counselor can help. Focus on the positive steps you are taking to improve your health.

Prevention

In many cases, high cholesterol can be prevented or delayed by living a healthy lifestyle. Eating well, staying active, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight are the best ways to lower your risk.

Screening programmes

Routine cholesterol screening is a blood test. In the UK, the NHS offers a health check for adults aged 40–74 that includes a cholesterol test. If you have risk factors, your doctor may recommend testing earlier or more often.

Complications

If left untreated

• Build-up of fatty deposits in arteries (atherosclerosis), which can narrow or block blood flow
• Heart attack (when blood flow to the heart is blocked)
• Stroke (when blood flow to the brain is blocked)
• Peripheral artery disease (narrowed arteries in the legs, causing pain or cramps)

Long-term outlook

The outlook for people with high cholesterol is very good. With proper management — including lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication — you can significantly lower your risk of complications and live a long, healthy life. Many people successfully control their cholesterol and avoid heart problems.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.