Monitoring cholesterol
- 3 minute read
- Last updated: October 2023
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is found in the blood. There are two main types:
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Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is also known as "bad" cholesterol.
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High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is also known as "good" cholesterol.
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Too much LDL (bad) cholesterol or too little HDL (good) cholesterol can put you at risk of heart disease and stroke.
Important
It is important to monitor your cholesterol levels and keep them within a healthy range.
It is important to speak to your GP or your stroke doctor regarding a specific cholesterol and LDL target for you, based on your own specific medical management plan. It is important to arrange regular blood tests with your GP to ensure your cholesterol levels remain within a healthy target. This can reduce your risk of stroke and also boost your overall wellbeing.
Lower LDL cholesterol levels
LDL cholesterol is known as “bad” cholesterol because it carries cholesterol to arteries, which can lead to the buildup of plaque. This narrows and hardens the arteries, restricting blood flow to the brain and increasing your risk of stroke.
Monitor your cholesterol levels to find out if your LDL cholesterol is too high. Then ask your doctor for your target range and track your progress as you work towards it.
Increase HDL cholesterol levels
HDL cholesterol is often called “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries. Having higher levels of HDL cholesterol can protect against the development of plaque and reduce your risk of stroke.
By monitoring your cholesterol levels, you can find out if your HDL cholesterol is too low. You can then take steps to increase it and improve your overall cardiovascular health.
Medication management
Monitoring your cholesterol levels is especially important when you have been prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications like statins. It lets you know whether they are working properly and reducing your cholesterol in the intended way.
Your doctor or stroke nurse will let you know how and when to take your medications. Stick to their advice to give yourself the best chance of lowering your stroke risk.
Lifestyle changes
Monitoring your cholesterol can motivate you to make positive lifestyle changes. As you work towards your target levels, you are encouraged to eat healthily, exercise regularly, quit smoking and reduce your alcohol intake.
These positive steps can not only help lower your LDL cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of stroke but also make you feel better in yourself.
Identify risks early on
Regular monitoring allows you to notice any fluctuations or trends in your cholesterol levels at an early stage.
You can then work with your healthcare provider to address any issues through lifestyle changes, medication changes or other interventions. This can help prevent or minimise your risk of stroke.
Other information
Getting help
1. If you are feeling confused about your new medications
Consider calling or visiting your local pharmacist, GP or stroke nurse.
2. If you notice a change in symptoms or new side effects
Call your GP for a consultation.
Top tips
Medication supply
“Do not allow your medications to run out. Visit your GP (family doctor) and pharmacy for a new supply one to two weeks before your medications run out”
Brona Kehoe | Pharmacist |
Side effects of medication
“If you experience side effects, talk to your pharmacist or GP (family doctor) before stopping any medication.”
Brona Kehoe | Pharmacist |
Travelling
“If you are travelling, take a written list of your medications and an extra one-week supply of your medications.”
Brona Kehoe | Pharmacist |
