Updated on October 7, 2026.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that the body requires to remain healthy. The body uses cholesterol to make cells, hormones, vitamin D, digestive acid, and a protective layer that covers nerve cells called myelin. Most of the cholesterol in the body is produced by the liver, while the rest is consumed in the foods a person eats. However, too much cholesterol or an unhealthy balance of cholesterol can damage the blood vessels and heart.
High cholesterol is associated with arterial plaque, a buildup of fat, cholesterol, calcium, cellular waste, and other substances that sticks to the inner walls of blood vessels. This causes blood vessels to narrow and stiffen, making it more difficult for blood to move through the body. The medical term for this is atherosclerosis. It is commonly called “hardening of the arteries.”
Atherosclerosis puts a person at risk for blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, and other complications.
Treatment for high cholesterol
If you are diagnosed with high cholesterol, your healthcare provider will recommend treatments to improve cholesterol levels. They may also recommend treatments to help with blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and weight.
Treatment plans usually include changes to diet and lifestyle. Eating sugary or high-fat foods, drinking too much alcohol, smoking, and getting too little physical activity all contribute to unhealthy cholesterol levels. People with high cholesterol should talk to their healthcare provider about following a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, losing weight, and quitting smoking (if they smoke).
Treatment plans may also include medications to lower cholesterol levels and improve other numbers.
Questions when starting a new medication
It’s important to understand the medications you are taking, why you are taking them, and how to take them correctly. Ask your healthcare provider these questions whenever you are prescribed a new medication:
- What is the name of the medication?
- What dosage will I be taking?
- Why is this medication recommended? What does it treat? How does it work?
- How is this medication administered? If a medication is taken as an injection, your healthcare provider will provide you with training and instructions on how to use the injector.
- How often will I need to take this medication and at what times of day?
- What is the goal of taking this medication? How will we know if it is working?
- What lifestyle modifications can I make to get the most benefit from this medication?
- Is there anything that I need to avoid while taking this medication?
- Can this medication interact with other medications? Your healthcare provider should have an up-to-date list of all medications you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements (including herbal products).
- What is the risk of side effects? Is there a risk of serious side effects?
- What should I do if I think I am experiencing a side effect? What symptoms require immediate medical attention?
- What will this medication cost, and who can I talk to if I have concerns about the cost?
Always be honest with your healthcare provider.
If you are struggling to take a medication on schedule, have questions or concerns, or do not understand something, bring it up at your appointment.
Your healthcare provider is your best source of information, and you will get the most out of treatment by taking an active role in your care.
