Questions posted in the
Heart Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
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Subject: Re: Concerned about increasing Triglycerides Topic Area: Coronary HeartPosted by Fred on July 03, 1999 at 14:29:27I underwent a quadruple bypass in December. A lipid panel at 2 months revealed my cholesterol to be 167. HDL and LDL were also wnl. My triglycerides were 245. These findings placed me in an "average risk category". Repeat profile done at 6 months revealed my cholesterol to be the same, with HDL being somewhat lower and LDL remaining about the same, but my triglycerides are now 306 and I am in an "above risk category". I have been on a strict low fat, low sodium diet since surgery and my exercise activity involves me riding more than 30 miles a week on a bicycle. Do I need to be on a lipid lowering agent such as Lopid or on Niacin? Can you provide some explanation as to why my triglycerides continue to increase. Thank-you.
Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on July 05, 1999 at 08:17:56 Dear Fred Many cardiologists would agree that elevated trigylcerides represent a risk factor for heart disease. This is particularly true in the setting of a low HDL. Medications are a consideration, but first I would recommend aerobic exercise and a low fat diet, which it sounds like you are doing. Alcohol can increase triglycerides, so cut that out of your life. Estrogen replacement can raise triglycerides, but that would not be a concern in males. Patients who are diabetic, or on their way to becoming diabetic, often have elevated triglycerides and it would be worthwhile to be evaluated for diabetes. I hope this has been useful. Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck. Information provided here is of a general nature. Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor. If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.
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