Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance essential for building cells and producing hormones, but too much of it can lead to health risks, especially heart disease. Speak with an registered doctors in Australia for medical advice in minutes, 24/7.

When to consult a doctor for cholesterol?

If you have a family history of heart disease

If you have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, are over 45 (or over 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people), regular cholesterol checks with your GP are recommended.

If you experience severe symptoms

Call 000 immediately if you have sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, arm or jaw pain, or sudden weakness — these may indicate a heart attack or stroke. For ongoing or mild cardiovascular symptoms such as breathlessness on exertion or coldness in the hands and feet, consult a GP promptly.

If your health or medications change

Medical review is important if you already have high cholesterol or heart disease and are making lifestyle changes, starting new medications, or develop a new condition such as hypothyroidism or diabetes.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed.by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Causes and complications

Cholesterol causes

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.

Types and prevention

Types of cholesterol

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.

Prevention of cholesterol

Eat a healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats).
Exercise regularly or lose weight if needed.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Take medications if prescribed by your doctor.
Talk to GP to manage cholesterol early symptoms.

Hola Health provides a convenient way to consult an AHPRA-registered doctor online, 24/7 across Australia.

Clinical note: A telehealth assessment can help evaluate cardiovascular risk factors, arrange pathology referrals for cholesterol testing, and provide lifestyle advice and prescriptions if clinically indicated. High cholesterol cannot be diagnosed without blood testing — your GP can arrange a pathology referral during your consultation. Telehealth is a complementary service; cardiovascular risk assessment may require blood pressure measurement and other clinical data that your GP will discuss with you. If you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other potential cardiac emergency symptoms, call 000 immediately — do not book a telehealth appointment for these presentations. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.