Internal Medicine, by video or in person
High Cholesterol
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
High Cholesterol
- Usually no symptoms at all
- Found on a blood test (lipid profile) done at a checkup
- Yellowish fatty lumps on the eyelids, or on the tendons of the hands or heels, in inherited high cholesterol
- A close relative who had a heart attack or stroke at a young age, or who has high cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance carried in the blood. Too much of the wrong kind, LDL or 'bad' cholesterol, builds up inside the arteries and raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. High cholesterol causes no symptoms, so you cannot feel it: the only way to know is a blood test, usually called a lipid profile. The figure matters most alongside your other risks, such as blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, age and family history, which is why a doctor reads the result with you rather than on its own. Some families inherit very high cholesterol from a young age (familial hypercholesterolaemia), and it needs treating early.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms at all
- Found on a blood test (lipid profile) done at a checkup
- Yellowish fatty lumps on the eyelids, or on the tendons of the hands or heels, in inherited high cholesterol
- A close relative who had a heart attack or stroke at a young age, or who has high cholesterol
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now if you have chest pain or tightness that spreads to the arm, neck or jaw, sudden breathlessness, or sudden weakness of the face, arm or leg or slurred speech, which can mean a heart attack or a stroke. Ask for a cholesterol test if you are over 40, or at any age if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease, are overweight, smoke, or have a close relative who had a heart attack or stroke young or has high cholesterol. A doctor can go through your result and your other risks with you by video.
Treatment options
- A lipid profile blood test: total, LDL, HDL and non-HDL cholesterol and triglycerides
- An assessment of your overall risk of heart attack and stroke, not the cholesterol figure alone
- Less saturated fat, such as fatty meat, butter, palm and coconut oil and fried food, and more vegetables, beans, whole grains and fish
- Regular exercise, a healthy weight, stopping smoking and drinking less alcohol
- A statin medicine when your risk is raised or the level is very high, with a repeat blood test to check it is working
- A specialist review for very high levels or inherited high cholesterol
Common Questions
Can I feel it if my cholesterol is high?
No. High cholesterol causes no symptoms. Headaches, tiredness or a heavy feeling in the body are not signs of it. A blood test is the only way to know.
Do I need to fast before a cholesterol test?
Usually not. A test done without fasting is accurate enough for most people. Your doctor or the laboratory will tell you if they want a fasting sample, which is sometimes asked for when triglycerides are high.
Are statins for life?
Usually, yes, because cholesterol rises again when they stop. Most people take them without problems. If you get muscle aches, tell your doctor rather than stopping on your own: a different statin or strength often suits.
Can a doctor manage my cholesterol by video?
Yes, for most people. A doctor can read your lipid profile with your blood pressure and other risks, start or adjust treatment, and arrange the repeat blood test, all by video.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified internal medicine specialist near you.
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The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Cardiovascular disease: risk assessment and reduction, including lipid modification (NG238). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
- High cholesterol. NHS. Patient information.
- Statins. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 29 October 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.