High cholesterol, also called hyperlipidemia, means the blood has higher-than-healthy levels of cholesterol or other fats. Cholesterol is needed by the body, but too much can contribute to plaque in arteries.
LDL, HDL, and triglycerides
LDL is often called bad cholesterol because high levels can contribute to plaque buildup. HDL helps carry cholesterol away from arteries. Triglycerides are another blood fat that can rise with diet, diabetes, alcohol, genetics, or other factors.
Why it matters
High cholesterol usually has no symptoms. The concern is long-term risk, especially heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
Cholesterol numbers are interpreted with age, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking history, family history, and overall cardiovascular risk.