Cholesterol is a type of fat that circulates in the blood and plays an important role in normal body function. However, high levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

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Over time, excess cholesterol can contribute to the build-up of fatty deposits within the arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. This can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart and other organs.

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A cardiology assessment can help determine whether cholesterol levels are contributing to cardiovascular risk and whether treatment may be beneficial.

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What is cholesterol?

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Cholesterol is carried in the bloodstream by particles known as lipoproteins.

The two main types are:

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• LDL cholesterol, often referred to as “bad cholesterol”, which can contribute to plaque build-up in the arteries
• HDL cholesterol, often referred to as “good cholesterol”, which helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream

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Triglycerides, another type of blood fat, may also contribute to cardiovascular risk.

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Causes of high cholesterol

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High cholesterol can develop for a number of reasons.

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Common contributing factors include:

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• genetic factors or family history
• diet high in saturated fats
• lack of physical activity
• excess body weight
• diabetes
• increasing age

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Some people may have familial hypercholesterolaemia, a genetic condition that leads to significantly elevated cholesterol levels.

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Why high cholesterol is important

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Persistently elevated cholesterol levels increase the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke.

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Many people with high cholesterol have no symptoms, so the condition is often detected through routine blood testing.

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Identifying and treating high cholesterol early can significantly reduce long-term cardiovascular risk.

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How high cholesterol is assessed

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Assessment typically includes:

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• blood tests to measure cholesterol levels
• evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors
• review of family history of heart disease

In some cases additional investigations may be recommended, such as:

• coronary artery calcium scoring
• CT coronary angiography

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These tests help assess whether there is evidence of early coronary artery disease.

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Treatment for high cholesterol

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Management focuses on reducing cholesterol levels and lowering cardiovascular risk.

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Treatment may include:

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• dietary modification
• increasing physical activity
• weight management
• medications such as statins or other lipid-lowering therapies

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Treatment recommendations depend on cholesterol levels, overall cardiovascular risk and the presence of other risk factors.

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When to seek medical advice

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You may wish to consider cardiology assessment if you have:

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• persistently elevated cholesterol levels
• a family history of early heart disease
• known cardiovascular risk factors
• uncertainty about whether treatment is required

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Consultation

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Private cardiology consultations with Dr Thomas Heseltine are available at Spire Murrayfield Hospital Wirral.

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Appointments include a detailed assessment of cardiovascular risk and advice regarding appropriate investigations and treatment to support long-term heart health.