How to manage LDL cholesterol levels?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had a fasting blood test, and my results are as follows: Plasma glucose (fasting) 98 mg/dL, lipid profile (serum) tests: cholesterol (serum) 288 mg/dL, triglycerides (serum) 242 mg/dL, HDL-C (serum) 36 mg/dL, LDL-C (serum) 220 mg/dL, VLDL-C (serum) 32 mg/dL, CHOL/HDL ratio 8.0, and LDL/HDL ratio 6.1.

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Yes, the lipid profile is significantly deranged, especially the LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is the 'bad' cholesterol. The likely cause of this is genetic, with some influence from lifestyle factors. This will require regular monitoring, and strict control is necessary to prevent the development of heart blockages. Therefore, you need to start medication and adopt a healthy lifestyle. You should avoid fatty, oily, and high-calorie foods, and engage in regular exercise, such as brisk walking or running, depending on your capacity.

Additionally, you should monitor your blood pressure (BP). If you have a family history of heart disease or experience chest pain, other routine tests like an echocardiogram and treadmill test (TMT) should also be done. Regarding medication, you should take one tablet of Rosuvastatin 10 mg once daily at bedtime after meals for eight weeks, provided you tolerate it well without side effects. After eight weeks, repeat the lipid profile to assess the response. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her, and take the medicines with take the medicines with their consent.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.