Cholesterol

Frequent health checks are essential after a certain age to ensure all organs, including the heart, are functioning healthily. Cholesterol checks are also part of the heart health checks. It is also essential to consult a doctor if you are at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease or if you have any of the following signs:

• Genetics: If you have a family history of high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.
• Age and routine screening: If you are above 45 years old or 30 years old in the case of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
• Other conditions: If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or are obese.
• Symptoms: If you have chest pain, breathlessness, numbness or coldness of extremities.
• Health changes: If you are already diagnosed with high cholesterol or heart disease and are planning lifestyle changes or have major health changes such as the onset of hypothyroidism and other conditions.

Please note: Elevated cholesterol levels can be managed by eating right, active lifestyle and taking the right medicines or via telehealth. For severe symptoms, dial 000 or visit the nearest hospital. 

Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream in two main types:

• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often called “bad” cholesterol, it can build up in the walls of your arteries, leading to hardening and narrowing that may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as “good” cholesterol, it helps remove LDL from your bloodstream, transporting it to the liver to be broken down and removed from the body.

Having a high level of LDL and a low level of HDL can be risky, but lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can help keep cholesterol levels in check. Regular screenings are also essential, especially as you age or if you have a family history of high cholesterol.

High cholesterol is primarily influenced by lifestyle choices and genetics. Some common causes include:

• Diet: Eating foods high in saturated fats and trans fats, like red meat, full-fat dairy, fried and processed foods
• Lack of exercise: Being sedentary can lower HDL (good) cholesterol
• Obesity: Excess weight can raise LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol.
• Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and lowers HDL cholesterol.
• Genetics: Family history can play a significant role
• Underlying conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, and certain medications can also elevate cholesterol.

High cholesterol typically doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms, which is why it’s often called a “silent” condition. However, prolonged high cholesterol can lead to symptoms associated with cardiovascular issues, including:

• Chest pain or angina: Due to blocked arteries, which can reduce blood flow to the heart.
• Shortness of breath: Caused by reduced blood flow or heart strain.
• Numbness or coldness in extremities: This can happen when there’s reduced blood circulation in the arms or legs.
• Stroke or heart attack: Severe outcomes due to blocked arteries.

Telehealth is a convenient way to manage cholesterol and consult with a doctor for quick medical advice. An online doctor is your regular AHPRA-registered medical practitioner who will consult you on a video/audio call.

Get 24-hour access to online doctor consultations via telehealth appointments. Simply choose the consult type, fill in your details including Medicare and payment, and see a doctor online within 15 minutes. Here are some of the benefits of telehealth consultations:

• Doctors on demand: Virtual doctor appointments are available 24/7 making it easy for patients to access healthcare when they need it
• Convenience: Access quality healthcare from remote locations in Australia.
• Instant healthcare services: Get access to instant scripts, specialist referrals, medical certificates online, pharmacy delivery and more
• Health checks: Get referrals for health checks such as blood test referrals, pathology tests, radiology tests and more

Yes, if deemed necessary, telehealth doctors can issue online prescriptions for cholesterol. They can also issue online scripts for prescription refills.

Cholesterol can be managed by adopting healthy habits and making lifestyle modifications. Here are some ways to lower your cholesterol:

• Eat a healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats).
• Exercise regularly.
• Lose weight if needed.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Take medications if prescribed by your doctor.

Yes, you can obtain pathology referrals online to get your cholesterol levels tested. Many telehealth platforms and online healthcare services offer virtual consultations where a doctor can assess your health needs and provide referrals for pathology tests, including cholesterol screening.

Yes, you can get an online medical certificate from Hola Health within 15 minutes. Online doctor certificates are available 24/7 and are valid as they will be issued by AHPRA-registered medical practitioners.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper assessment regarding heart health. Depending on your age, lifestyle, and family history, your doctor may recommend a variety of tests to evaluate your cardiovascular health. Here are some common tests you may encounter:

• Blood pressure check
• Cholesterol test (lipid panel)
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
• Echocardiogram
• Stress test
• CT coronary angiography
• Blood tests for inflammation such as CRP

Telehealth helps you connect with an AHPRA-licensed online doctor within minutes. Hola Health provides 24/7 access to qualified medical practitioners in Australia within 15 minutes for:

• Telehealth appointment 24/7
• Instant scripts
• Medical certificate
• Doctor referral