HDL/LDL also related to thrombosis (and another question)?

[mariete]

Posted by mariette on August 07, 1999 at 18:05:41
Dear Doctors,
I wrote earlier about thrombosis. I actually have 2 questions.
1.
Today there was something in the papers about a new discovery with respect to cholesterol. They now think that the "good cholesterol"  plays a very important role in vesselproblem.
Is it possible that a low cholesterol, and especially low HDL levels could play a role in thrombosis and strokes? If so, what could I do to improve levels?
2.
Given that fact that I have a clotting disorder, suffered 8 DVTs and PEs as well as 3 minor strokes, as well as coronary artery spasms, it is possible that this all leads to an increased risk for an MI?
Thanks, Mariette

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD JMF on August 08, 1999 at 14:41:38
Dear Marriette,
thank you for your questions.
a low HDL or good cholesterol is a potent risk factor for CAD.  Two recent studies have suggest that raising HDL will decrease your risk of heart attacks and death.  This is best done with niacin, gemfibrozil, exercise or a modest amount of red wine or grape juice.  
As far as the link between DVT's and PE's and stroke with MI's.  they are related by the risks that cause them, but are not related secondary to thromboisis.  PE's and DVT's are in the venous system.  HOwever, if you smoke and have other cholesterol abnormalilites, these are risks for CAD.  
I hope this has been useful. I wish you the best of luck. Feel free to write back.
Information provided here is for general purposes only. Specific questions should be addressed to your own doctor. If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter. The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.
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Posted by Mariette on August 08, 1999 at 17:34:58
Thanks for your reply.
One more question if I may... I know there is no realtionship between DVTs and PEs. But after having the three strokes... These occur in the arteries?? Is there any increased risk for an MI, also taking the CA spasms into account??
Thanks, Mariette

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD JMF on August 09, 1999 at 08:13:21
Dear Marriette,
There is a relationship between strokes and MI via risk factors.  Coronary spasm as well may induce a myocardial infarction.  Again your best bet is to modify all your risk factors, control your vasospasm and take aspirin or another antiplatelet agent after review with your physician.
Posted by Mariette on August 09, 1999 at 10:27:19
Thanks again for your time. I already am on acenocoumarol, aspirine as well as persantin. For the rest.... risk factors? My weight is fine, I don;t smoke or drink and get enough exercise..... Don't know what more I can do...
Thanks Mariette

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD JMF on August 11, 1999 at 11:52:04
Dear Marriete,
It seems that you are taking care of yourself as best you can and have controlled the risk factors that you can.  
I hope this has been useful. I wish you the best of luck. Feel free to write back.
     Information provided here is for general purposes only. Specific questions should be addressed to your own
     doctor. If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call
     1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter. The Heart
     Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to
     address your cardiac problem.