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First time posting and total Cholesterol is 241

Posted , 5 users are following.

Nevada_Mike
Nevada_Mike

I have had my cholesterol checked for years and I seem to hover aroud 230. I just received results of total of 241, Trigycerides 80, HDL 75, and VLDL 16, LDL 150.  My ratio is 3.2 and is says 1/2 average risk.

I had my arteries scanned a few months ago and my arteries were "52 years old" and I am 50.  I am a very active runner with no other risk factors.  My doctor had the nurse call and say all my results "looked good."

I am not a big fan of medications and he knows that but I am wondering if its time to consider a statin.  Any thoughts?

1 like, 8 replies

8 Replies

  • rocky31676
    rocky31676 Nevada_Mike

    Posted

    You have near normal in the upper limits . Ratio of Cholesterol / HDL is 3.2 is also normal (<4). 

    So the doctor is correct. Looks Good. 

    No need for medications as adviced. 

    Keep up the active lifestyle. 

  • Mesirm
    Mesirm Nevada_Mike

    Posted

    Hi Mike, my experience with statins resulted in joint & muscle pain. This may not happen to you but I have to agree with Rocky.  Your numbers are near normal. I would love to have HDL of 85. I've been reading that the cholesterol ratio to HDL is a better measurement than total cholesterol.  Just curious... but do you lift weights or strength train?  

    • Nevada_Mike
      Nevada_Mike Mesirm

      Posted

      Thanks for the reply.  Yes I strength train 4 days a week and run or cycle at least that many days a week.  Does that impact HDL?
    • Mesirm
      Mesirm Nevada_Mike

      Posted

      Yes. I'm trying to get consistent on my strength training. I know it helps improve HDL. Thanks for inspiration. 

    • Nevada_Mike
      Nevada_Mike Mesirm

      Posted

      I would suggest classes or groups.  My strength training is a  group with an instructor.  It is more of a functional fitness class.  I am also in a running group and most are younger and they keep me moving. I have some motivation but groups really help me.
    • Mesirm
      Mesirm Nevada_Mike

      Posted

      Thanks Mike! I'm sure I need a group. I've been putting it off. 

  • john4850
    john4850 Nevada_Mike

    Posted

    I had a calcium scan a couple of years ago and my score was around 200. I'm 62 and my cardiologist says that I have a little bit of plaque and that's why I'm trying to get my HDL up.

    I'm on 1mg of Crestor and that took my LDL from 95 to 78.

    John

  • david43006
    david43006 Nevada_Mike

    Posted

    I took a statin and ezetroll ,only meds that really brought my cholesterol down under the required level.

    For my statin leg pain I eat peanut butter everyday and zero pain result.

    Reading over the years I've seen just as much benefits for statins as harm.

    For me personally it's done well.I do believe it prevented a heart attack by restricting swelling.

    Look after your arteries

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