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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For High LDL Levels And Low HDL Levels

Hi, my ldl came back high 127? and hdl low. My overall cholesterol is good. I m 45 and do have a 20 percent blockage in my carotid artery as of a few years ago. The doc wants me on a statin, but I refuse. Is the statin necessary or can I bring this down myself?
Wed, 7 Dec 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi & Welcome.

Based on the results of lab test you have a borderline high LDL cholesterol and seem to have developed atherosclerosis of the carotid artery.

Since high LDL cholesterol is considered the “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque, a thick, hard deposit that can clog arteries and make them less flexible. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery like carotid, stroke can result.

So, high LDL cholesterol is a major risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and its complications.

Hence, you should take cholesterol lowering medications like "Statin" to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.

You should also take anti-platelet drugs ("blood thinner") like Aspirin or Clopidogrel to prevent the clot formation in the carotid artery.

Besides, I also recommend the following lifestyle changes:

1. Regular exercise for 30 to 60 minutes a day helps you lose weight and boosts your HDL ("good cholesterol") levels.

2. Increase the intake of fiber like vegetables, whole grains, fruits, etc.

3. Reduce the amount of saturated fats such as red meat, cheese and whole milk.
4. Avoid smoking and alcohol.

Hope the advice given above would be beneficial.
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Suggest Treatment For High LDL Levels And Low HDL Levels

Hi & Welcome. Based on the results of lab test you have a borderline high LDL cholesterol and seem to have developed atherosclerosis of the carotid artery. Since high LDL cholesterol is considered the “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque, a thick, hard deposit that can clog arteries and make them less flexible. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery like carotid, stroke can result. So, high LDL cholesterol is a major risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and its complications. Hence, you should take cholesterol lowering medications like Statin to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. You should also take anti-platelet drugs ( blood thinner ) like Aspirin or Clopidogrel to prevent the clot formation in the carotid artery. Besides, I also recommend the following lifestyle changes: 1. Regular exercise for 30 to 60 minutes a day helps you lose weight and boosts your HDL ( good cholesterol ) levels. 2. Increase the intake of fiber like vegetables, whole grains, fruits, etc. 3. Reduce the amount of saturated fats such as red meat, cheese and whole milk. 4. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Hope the advice given above would be beneficial.