Now that you have a better understanding of lipids, how they impact your heart health and how to manage them, be sure to stay in close contact with your healthcare provider. Talking about lipids can be confusing, and we realize there are other topics you may need to discuss with your health care provider as well. But, knowing the right questions to ask and being prepared with pen and paper will help. Here are some basic questions to get the conversation started.

1. What are my lipid levels? What do they mean?
   Triglycerides
   LDL-C "bad"
   HDL-C "good"
   Total Cholesterol
2. Based on my lipid levels and other cardiovascular risk factors, what is my risk of developing heart disease?
3. What are my personal lipid goals?
   Triglycerides
   LDL-C "bad"
   HDL-C "good"
   Total Cholesterol
4. What steps should I take to bring my lipids to a healthy level?
5. Should I be taking a medication?
6. How long will it take me to achieve my lipid goals?
7. How often should I get my lipids checked?
8. If I am unable to reach my lipid goals with the treatment plan we've just discussed, what other options are there to help me reach them?

Remember, if you don't understand what your healthcare provider has said about your lipid levels, make sure you ask him or her to explain it again.

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