High Cholesterol: UK Online Doctor & Statin Guide
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- Cardiovascular risk (QRISK3) matters more than cholesterol alone.
- Statins (atorvastatin, rosuvastatin) reduce heart attack and stroke risk substantially.
- Side effects are uncommon and usually manageable.
- Lifestyle alone rarely lowers LDL enough in high-risk patients.
Understanding cholesterol
- Total cholesterol: ideally <5.0.
- LDL ('bad'): <3.0; <2.0 if cardiovascular disease/diabetes.
- HDL ('good'): >1.0 men, >1.2 women.
- Non-HDL cholesterol is now the preferred target.
- Ratio total:HDL <4 ideal.
Who needs treatment?
- Anyone with established cardiovascular disease.
- Familial hypercholesterolaemia.
- QRISK3 ≥10% (10-year cardiovascular risk).
- Most people with diabetes over 40.
Statins
Atorvastatin 20mg is first-line for primary prevention; 80mg for secondary prevention. Side effects: muscle aches in ~5% (often unrelated), rare liver enzyme rise. Take with or without food, usually evening.
Lifestyle
- Reduce saturated fat.
- Increase soluble fibre (oats, beans).
- Plant sterols/stanols (modest effect).
- Exercise raises HDL.
- Lose weight; stop smoking.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about high cholesterol.
How an online doctor can help
Related articles
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): UK Online Doctor Guide
Hypertension is silent but serious. Learn UK targets, lifestyle measures and the main BP medications — and how an online GP can prescribe and monitor.
Asthma: UK Online Doctor Treatment, Inhalers & Action Plans
Asthma needs the right inhaler and a clear plan. Learn UK guidance on preventer/reliever inhalers and how an online GP supports asthma reviews.
Type 2 Diabetes: UK Online Doctor & Treatment Overview
Type 2 diabetes is increasingly common. Learn HbA1c targets, lifestyle and medication options (metformin, GLP-1s) — and how an online UK GP can help.
This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
See a UK GP about this today
Same-day video or phone consultations with GMC-registered GPs. Prescriptions, sick notes and referrals when clinically appropriate.