Get a blood test called a lipid panel
Ask your doctor for your total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride results
Know that high cholesterol usually has no symptoms
Watch for risk factors like family history, obesity, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and poor diet
Notice that signs may appear only after complications develop
Seek medical care if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, or symptoms of heart disease or stroke
Follow up regularly if you are over 20, have risk factors, or have had abnormal cholesterol before