Very low total cholesterol with high tryglicerides

I had a recent blood work up and would just like a "second opinion" as to the meaning of the lipid results.  I am a 60 yr.old male, daily drinker but not excessive witha family history of heart disease and hypertension.  I personally have been on blood pressure medication since my early 20's. 5'10" at 200 lbs. and that weight has been stable for decades.

Last blood test:  Total Chol: 122 ; HDL: 37 LDL:70. Trygliserides: 196; ALT: 12; AST 20. Ac1 <5.6. Bilirubins, creatine
all within tolerance. Abstence from alcohol before test....7 days total and complete.  My cholesterol keeps going down (I have reduced Lipitor from 10 mg. to 7.5) but my other ratios do not improve.

My doctor says lose weight and exercise. I do exercise but significant weight loss is probably a fiction. Is there some other testing I should be doing? Why does my cholesterol keep falling even tho my Lipitor dosage is lower?

Thanks!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Other than the triglycerides, which are mildly elevated, those numbers look pretty good.  

I agree with the recommendation of weight loss and exercise to lower the triglycerides.  Taking fish oil also has been shown to help.  

Cholesterol can fluctuate, independent of the small dose change in the Lipitor.  Also, changes in HDL also affects the total cholesterol number.

I cannot think of further testing at this time.  

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd