Cholesterol, what the?

[SheFly]

I have a family history of heart disease and high cholesterol. I have had levels (total) as high as 300, and as low as 180. The past two tests (so one year) have me hovering around 233. Like others have said, that DOES NOT tell the whole story! My ratio of HDL:LDL has improved, despite the numbers getting higher. Like you, I can't exercise more - I ride 10-15 hours per week already. While my diet isn't GREAT, it also isn't terrible. I have been going to the same PCP for years, and she knows me well enough that for ME, this number, and the ratio is OK as is - no statins required. We've discussed it, I've had heart tests, and we agree that we will continue to monitor every 6 months, and keep tabs on where it is.

I have tried fish oil supplements daily, to no avail. I have cut lots of foods, and reduced amounts, all to no avail. For me, it is genetic, and something I need to try to manage as best as possible.

My dad has had 3 angioplasties and a heart bypass. My paternal grandfather died of a massive heart attack at 45, and his wife (my grandmother) the same at 65. My maternal grandfather was a double amputee from arteriosclerosis, and died of a heart attack at 65. It doesn't, genetically, get any worse .

My point is, that for YOU, maybe this is OK without going on a statin. Has it been high in the past? Can you talk to your doc to see what alternatives there might be - like changing your diet more, and then re-testing in 6 months? I would wait until you had ALL of the numbers before making any decisions, but remember that ultimately, the statin is YOUR choice.

SheFly