The results of a fragmented LDL test indicate my LDL is Type A. What does this mean?

Question

I was on statins for 20 years but I developed side effects. I eat very healthfully, exercising most days. My HDL has climbed to 50 while my total cholesterol rose from 148 to 254. If the test results indicate my LDL is good, am I home free after all these years? I'm an active 58 year-old female.

Answer 1

A total cholesterol reading of 254 is at a high risk level. If your HDL is now 50 that would indicate your LDL is 204 and that's considered very high so I'm a bit confused as to why your LDL would be considered good - maybe I'm misunderstanding your question.

Answer 2

In order to answer this question I would need to know your triglyceride level so I can calculate your LDL level, however, the fact that your total cholesterol rose by 100 isn't a good sign. It's good that your HDL is up, but even at high levels, having a high HDL does not completely remove the risk of having an elevated LDL level. Did this rise happen after you stopped taking your statin?
As I said, I don't know your exact LDL level and what risk factors you have for heart disease, so you should see your doctor to discuss whether cholesterol lowering therapy is necessary, but it sounds like it probably would be. Even if you had unacceptable side effects from a statin before, you might not experience those same effects from a different statin, and there are several other drugs we can give which are not the same family and thus may avoid the side effects as well, again, this is something best discussed with your doctor.
It's great that you eat well and exercise as well, however, in many people that's not enough and some medications are necessary to keep cholesterol down to a level that minimizes risk from heart disease, so keep up the good work, but by itself, it may not get you all the way there.

Answer 3

Oh! Just look through the net. U can get all infos about HDL or LDL easily.

Answer 4

yeap