Are higher cholesterol and triglyceride levels threatening?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have attached my blood test result from last year. This year, I exercised in the later part of the year, although I also had a good amount of fast food. I decreased my weight from 235 to 220 pounds. I am 6 feet high. However, after the new cholesterol test, my new cholesterol level was at 205 mg/dL, and my triglycerides also increased to 185 mg/dL. How worried should I be, and should I take medicines for it? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I thoroughly read your query and understand your concern. On seeing your reports (attachments are hidden to protect the patient's identity), a few things can be done to reduce lipid levels. I suggest you the following measures. Do regular exercise and weight reduction. Ideally, your weight should be around 154 pounds. Dietary modifications. Eat a Mediterranean diet. Regarding medicine intake for cholesterol, I need more information. Please answer the following questions so I can make further suggestions. Do you have diabetes? Do you have a family history of cholesterol issues? What are your current LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels? Do you smoke or drink? Please revert with answers.

Regards.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. Alcohol, even in small quantities, is harmful to health. Alcohol is called the mother of all evils. Worldwide, alcohol is the most common cause of liver disease. Alcohol is carcinogenic, too, which means it can cause cancer. It is harmful to the heart and brain, too. Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is a well-known entity. Medicines for cholesterol are started based on levels of LDL. If it is more than 160 mg/dL, then Statin is suggested to be started. If less than that, then no need to start. Alcohol may have small benefits but harms more. Current research tells us that even a small amount of alcohol is also dangerous for health. Stick to a Mediterranean diet, do regular exercise, and reduce weight. Hope this has addressed your concern. Kind regards.