High Cholesterol
High cholesterol means excess LDL ('bad') cholesterol in your blood. It builds up in artery walls forming plaques, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. Total cholesterol should be below 5 mmol/L.
Dr Matthew Balerdi provides private cholesterol assessment in Hull, Grimsby and Scunthorpe including lipid profile testing, cardiovascular risk stratification, and personalised treatment plans.
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of your body. Your body needs cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods. However, too much cholesterol in your blood can increase your risk of coronary artery disease.
There are two main types of cholesterol that are important to understand:
HDL Cholesterol (Good)
High-density lipoprotein carries cholesterol away from arteries
LDL Cholesterol (Bad)
Low-density lipoprotein can build up in artery walls
Important Note
The treatment thresholds will vary according to your risk profile and what other conditions you already have. The values opposite are aimed at preventing the onset of arterial disease.
Cholesterol Level Guidelines
Total Cholesterol
LDL Cholesterol
References:
• European Society of Cardiology (ESC)/European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias. European Heart Journal. 2019.
Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to high cholesterol levels:
Controllable Factors:
- Poor diet (alcohol and processed food)
- Lack of physical activity
- Being overweight
- Smoking
Non-controllable Factors:
- Family history
- Age and gender
- Certain medical conditions
Health Consequences
High cholesterol usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious health problems:
Coronary Heart Disease
Narrowed or blocked coronary arteries
Heart Attack
When blood flow to the heart is blocked
Stroke
When blood flow to the brain is interrupted
Peripheral Artery Disease
Reduced blood flow to limbs
How Dr Matthew Balerdi Can Help
Our comprehensive cholesterol screening and cardiovascular risk assessment services help you understand and manage your cholesterol levels effectively.
Cholesterol Screening
Comprehensive lipid profile testing to measure total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
Risk Assessment
Complete cardiovascular risk evaluation including family history, lifestyle factors, and other health conditions.
Management Guidance
Expert advice on lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and treatment options to manage cholesterol levels.
Tests You May Need
Based on your symptoms and clinical assessment, Dr Balerdi may recommend one or more of the following investigations.
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What Patients Say
"...resolved what had remained unresolved in at least ten hospital visits, two admissions and approximately fifteen doctors."
— Verified Doctify review
"He took my symptoms seriously. I felt heard and understood. I felt safe."
— Verified Doctify review
Initial consultation from £165 · Follow-up from £110 · ECG from £80 · Echocardiogram from £350
View full price list →Reviewed by Dr Matthew Balerdi, Consultant Imaging Cardiologist (FRCP) — Last reviewed: April 2026
Concerned About Your Cholesterol?
Don't ignore your cholesterol levels - early detection and management can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Schedule your screening today.