When your blood contains too much of a fatty molecule called cholesterol, you have high cholesterol.
Eating fatty foods, not exercising enough, being overweight, smoking, and drinking alcohol are the main causes. It can also be passed down through families.
You can lower your cholesterol by consuming a healthy diet and increasing your physical activity. Some people must additionally take medication.
Too much cholesterol might cause your blood vessels to become clogged. It increases your chances of having a heart attack or stroke.
There are no symptoms associated with high cholesterol. A blood test is the only way to find out if you have it.