High cholesterol, made clear.

LDL can build up in artery walls. HDL carries cholesterol back toward the liver. Triglycerides are another blood fat. Total cholesterol combines several measurements.

A high HDL does not cancel out the risk from high LDL.

Plaque can narrow arteries. If plaque breaks open, a clot can block blood flow and cause a heart attack or stroke. Statins lower LDL and help make plaque more stable.

Treatment lowers risk over time; it does not make all plaque disappear.

Eat more fiber-rich foods, replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats, stay active, and take prescribed treatment. Your care team sets an LDL goal based on your overall risk.

Bring your lipid results and medicine list. Ask when to repeat your blood test.