Hi,I am Dr. Prabhakar Koregol (Cardiologist). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
my doctor has just confirmed that my lab tests showed an elevated HDL level - 184. he is recommending Lipitor. I don't want to become dependent on any meds - I'm 59, in otherwise good health - no diabetes, kidney or liver problems. what do you suggest?
Hello, I think there may be some confusion here. HDLs are the "good cholesterols" and you want them to be high, but usually "high" is 60,70,80 not 184. And you would never take medication to lower them. It sounds like whatever his reasoning for wanting to put you on Lipitor was not clearly explained. First, you have the right to refuse treatment, but you should be informed of the consequences of what may happen if you refuse the Lipitor and 2) I would have him go over the lipid profile he did on you and give you a copy so you can consider all options and know/understand why the doctor might be trying to prevent cardiovascular disease in you. Does that give you an idea of how to clarify this situation so you can make a more informed decision?
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Suggest Remedy To Lower Hdl Level
Hello, I think there may be some confusion here. HDLs are the good cholesterols and you want them to be high, but usually high is 60,70,80 not 184. And you would never take medication to lower them. It sounds like whatever his reasoning for wanting to put you on Lipitor was not clearly explained. First, you have the right to refuse treatment, but you should be informed of the consequences of what may happen if you refuse the Lipitor and 2) I would have him go over the lipid profile he did on you and give you a copy so you can consider all options and know/understand why the doctor might be trying to prevent cardiovascular disease in you. Does that give you an idea of how to clarify this situation so you can make a more informed decision?