Cholesterol treatment

Posted By Lynn P. on December 10, 1997 at 18:56:22:









I am a 52 YO, WF, light exercisor (walking), non-smoker, very light drinker
(wine only) in basically good health, except for high blood pressure, controlled
with 25mg Atenolol once a day.  Have had problems with heart palpitations/pre-beats,
but they are pretty much under control with the Atenolol and staying away from
caffein.  Also am on HRT - .625mg estrogen (had hysterectomy @ age 28).  

Last year my total cholesterol reading was 238, but my Dr. was not concerned
as my other numbers were great (I do not now have those numbers).  I was not too
thrilled over the # so I took dietary steps to try to lower it.  This year,
upon retesting, the numbers were no better, despite vast dietary changes.
Total Cholest. 258; HDL 51; LDL 179; Trig. 135.  As "show me" proof for my
Dr., I have kept a log of all food eaten on a daily basis for the past month.  
But no surprises here, as it is what I haave been eating for the past year.  
I eat little red meat, no sausage, eggs or bacon, no fried foods and avoid
fast foods.  Total fat consumption is nearly always under 30 grams a day with
cholesterol in the 60-100 mg range - and often less.  Total fat consumption
is always below 25% and often closer to 20% with caloric intake between
900-1400 per day.  
  
How long does it take to effect a drop in the numbers?  Again, my Dr. is not
concerned over the numbers and has taken me off Zocor (prescribed during her
medical absence by a colleague.)  I have no signs of heart disease per a
recent stress test and cardiograms, but I am concerned as my mother also has
high cholesterol along with heart disease (heart attack 7 years ago at age 65,
two angios, the most recent with stents inserted & is also taking a statin drug,
aspirin and estrogen.)  Should I be seeking another opinion at this point?    

Thank you for your consideration of my questions.