Services / Service details
Cholesterol and hypercholesterolaemia
Assessing raised cholesterol in the context of overall risk.
Understanding the condition
Cholesterol is needed for many bodily functions. Raised LDL cholesterol can, however, encourage deposits in blood vessels. Treatment decisions depend on more than a single measurement and also consider existing vascular disease, family history and other risks.
Common symptoms
Raised cholesterol usually causes no direct symptoms and is detected by blood tests. Very high readings or early cardiovascular disease in the family may suggest an inherited lipid disorder.
Diagnosis and assessment
We assess LDL, HDL and other blood lipids alongside blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and previous findings. Secondary causes may be investigated where appropriate. This informs an individual treatment target and timing of further blood tests.
Treatment and ongoing care
Diet, exercise and stopping smoking support vascular health. Cholesterol-lowering medication is added when risk requires it. We explain benefits, possible side effects and follow-up. Doses are adjusted together; a good result does not automatically mean treatment can stop.
Monitoring your progress together
We discuss which changes to watch for in everyday life and when another check-up would be useful. Your questions, personal goals and how well you tolerate treatment inform further decisions. Where needed, we coordinate with your treating specialists.
Your appointment at the practice
Bring your health insurance card, recent medical letters, existing test results and a medication list. Note any changes in your symptoms and your main questions. Do not change existing treatment yourself; we will discuss together whether adjustments are needed.