Causes

• According to WebMD, there are three causes of high cholesterol in children: heredity, eating habits and being overweight. Unfortunately, there are no symptoms of this disorder and many children go undiagnosed.
  
  

Diagnosing the Disorder

• A simple blood test can rule out or diagnose a child with high cholesterol. According to WebMD, testing should begin between the ages of 2 and 10. According to Kids Health, a test result over 200 milligrams per deciliter is considered high.
  
  

Warning

• If left untreated, high cholesterol builds up plaque in the arteries. This plaque restricts blood flow, and can cause heart problems and stroke.
  
  

Prevention/Treatment

• Prevention and treatment for high cholesterol include eating healthy foods and getting regular exercise. According to WebMD, children who are at high risk for developing the disorder should eat a diet consisting of fresh produce and lean proteins. WebMD also states that children should bike, run, walk and swim to prevent and treat this disorder.