
Do You Think I Have A Concern Regarding Cholesterol? What

What do you think I should be doing?
I eat quite well and bike about 25 km per day
I have asymptomatic stenosis of one tricuspid valve that does not seem to bother me
see attachment
thanks XXXXXXX Hunter
Opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello Greg!
Regarding your blood lipid profile let me explain that there is nothing to worry about!
Your lipid component, LDL cholesterol is just borderline and is not an issue of concern as far as you don't have any known coronary risk factors (diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, cigarette use, heredity, etc.)
Another protective component, HDL cholesterol seems to be quite normal. In this regard, frequent physical activity helps to improve such a favorable ratio and also to maintain a controlled body wight besides positive effects on glucose metabolism.
Coming to this point, as far as you manage to the above mentioned coronary risk factors and keep following a healthy diet (highly recommended the Mediterranean diet profile) you are classified to be at low risk for future coronary events.
But if any of the above mentioned situation is present (hypertension, glucose metabolism disorder, cigarette use, heredity for CAD) then you need to follow a more strict strategy regarding lipids control. You may need to pay more attention to your diet (low carbohydrates and saturated fat, high vegetable fibers recommended) and if necessary after several months a lipid controlling drug could be tried.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
Let me know in case of any further questions!
Kind regards,
Dr. Iliri


Thanks for very thorough answer.
My mother died of a stroke at 68 years old. She had smoked but had stopped for about 10 years - she also did not do any exercise and was very stressed. She had arteriosclerosis.
Does this change much
thanks again XXXXXXX
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
This family history does not change too much.
Anyway, I would recommend follow up by checking your blood lipid profile every 6 months.
A healthy diet (Mediterranean diet recommended, food rich in omega 3 fatty acids like walnuts, fish, fish oil, olive oil, etc., reduce fast food, reduce fat and sugar intake, etc.) coupled with aerobics and regular physical activity will help reduce LDL values.
LDL values below 3.35mmol/dl are recommended.
Anyway, LDL levels are not a true indicator of your cardiovascular risk.
As long as your Total cholesterol/HDL ratio is normal (below 4.5) and your LDL /HDL ratio below 3.5, there is nothing to worry about! (In your blood lipid profile these ratios are quite normal).
If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask me again!
Wishing all the best and a Happy New Year,
Dr. Iliri

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