Hyperlipidaemia means you have too many lipids (fats) in your blood, such as cholesterol or triglycerides. It’s often called “high cholesterol”. Too much cholesterol in your blood can build up in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other problems.

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You usually don’t notice any symptoms. Many people only find out they have high cholesterol after a blood test.

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What are the symptoms of Hyperlipidaemia?

 

There are usually no symptoms. That’s why it’s important to have regular blood tests — especially if you have risk factors for heart disease.

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In very rare cases, high cholesterol may cause:

• Yellow fatty lumps on the skin (xanthomas)

• Grey-white rings around the coloured part of the eye

• Chest pain if heart disease develops

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But most people feel completely fine and don’t know they have it.

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What increases my risk of High Cholesterol?

 

Several things can raise your cholesterol levels:

• Family history of high cholesterol

• Diet high in saturated fat

• Lack of exercise

• Being overweight or obese

• Smoking

• Drinking too much alcohol

• Age – risk increases with age

• Health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure or liver disease

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How is Hyperlipidaemia diagnosed?

 

It’s diagnosed with a blood test called a lipid profile. This test checks your:

• Total cholesterol

• LDL (bad) cholesterol

• HDL (good) cholesterol

• Triglycerides

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You may be asked to fast before your test, depending on what your doctor is checking for.

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What is the treatment for Hyperlipidaemia?

 

Treatment aims to lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of serious conditions like heart attack or stroke.

This usually includes:

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• Lifestyle changes, such as:

  • Eating less saturated fat

  • Eating more fibre and wholegrains

  • Being more active

  • Losing weight

  • Stopping smoking

  • Reducing alcohol

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• Medication, if lifestyle changes aren’t enough. The most common type is:

  • Statins – to lower LDL cholesterol
    Other medicines include ezetimibe, fibrates, or PCSK9 inhibitors, depending on your cholesterol levels and health history.

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More information:

For more support and advice, visit the NHS cholesterol guide or the British Heart Foundation.