You will have blood tests to check your cholesterol level. These lab tests usually measure your total cholesterol level as well as the levels of HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. (Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood.)  When you get your cholesterol checked, your doctor will give you a number for your total cholesterol level. A total cholesterol less than 200 is good, 200 to 239 is borderline high, and 240 or above is high.  HDL levels of 60 or more help to lower yourrisk for heart disease. An HDL less than 40 is a major risk factor for heart disease.

Your doctor will determine if you have other risk factors for heart disease to determine if your overall risk is low, moderate, or high. This will help you know what your LDL goal should be.

• If you have a low risk of heart disease, the recommended level of LDL is less than 160.
• If you have a moderate risk for heart disease, your goal is less than 130.
• If you have heart disease, diabetes, or a high risk of heart disease, your LDL should be below 100.

Generally, you want your triglyceride level to be 150 or less.

The goal of most cholesterol treatment is to decrease the LDL in your blood and to raise the HDL. A diet high in fiber and low in fat and cholesterol can help to lower cholesterol levels.
You will need to lose weight if you are overweight. You should also exercise as recommended by your doctor. If diet and exercise are not enough to reduce your cholesterol level, your doctor may prescribe medicine. Each medicine has slightly different effects on the different types of cholesterol. Your doctor will choose the best medicines for you. In some cases it may take some time to find the right one. More than 1 medicine may be needed to control your cholesterol.