lipids

Posted By chris on March 07, 1999 at 12:58:58:







I had a cholesterol screening done which showed my total cholesterol to be 229 and my HDL 35. My pcp ordered a lipid panel after 3 months of major dietary changes (drastic reduction in saturated fat, increased fruits,veggies,fiber etc) and an exercise program. The lipid panel showed my total cholesterol was 216, HDL was 26, and LDL was 200.  Was 3 months not long enough to see any improvement in these levels?  My pcp then ordered an FSH which was at a non-menopausal level.(I'm 48) I chose not to take lipid lowering drugs and retest at 6 months. Can I expect to see much of an improvement in my lipid levels after 6 months without drugs?  I am also being treated with 25mg atenolol daily for episodes of high blood pressure. I have normal and moderately high readings. (159/108, 120/84, 170/105 in a 2 week period) Would this be considered another risk factor? Should I be more aggressive with the cholesterol control?  Thank you.