Thursday, October 15, 2009

And now, the numbers. . .

216.4

I got a call from my doctor's office late yesterday to let me know the results of the (fasting) labwork for which blood was drawn at my annual physical on Monday. On a positive note, my fasting glucose and blood chemistries, thyroid panel, and complete blood count were all normal. So I have no thyroid problems, no diabetes or pre-diabetes, no liver or kidney function problems, and no anemia.

On the not-so-positive side, my lipid panel showed the following:

  • Total cholesterol: 233 (should be less than 200)
  • LDL: 171 (should be less than 130)
  • HDL: 35 (should be more than 45)
  • Triglycerides: 163 (should be less than 150)
Compared to last year's numbers, there really isn't a HUGE difference. My total cholesterol and triglycerides are slightly lower, but my LDL is higher and my HDL is slightly down. These are still numbers that double my risk of cardiac disease.

My doctor told me to "maintain" my ideal body weight, exercise 5-6 days a week, and eat healthfully. (Hmm, where have I heard that before?) He also told me that if my numbers remain high, I will eventually have to go on a statin to lower them. However, I can't take statins while there is a chance I may become pregnant, so unless I go on birth control (not going to happen) or reach menopause (not for a few more years, I hope), that option is tabled for now.

I have my gym bag packed and have told MM that I will meet him there at 6:15.

4 comments:

TUWABVB said...

Sometimes we just have to see the effects in plain numbers for them to kick us in the ass. I know that I'm the same way - given that you are a lawyer, I bet you react the same (give me concrete evidence, etc). But really, we have to do it for ourselves. Good for you for taking a step in the right direction by heading to the gym. I'm proud of you!

JessiferSeabs said...

Scary cholesterol numbers is what got me through the door to WW in the first place. I was really young, and althoug I've always struggled with my weight, that was the first time that I saw it adversely affecting my health and it freaked me the fuck out.

Good luck! Have a great workout.

K said...

You can do it!! Somebody told me a good quote the other day. I think it's from Valerie Bertinelli's new book. She says something like “I love a big slice of pizza. But I love myself more." I've been thinking about that quote whenever I want to reach for chocolate or other sweets.

Flying Monkeys said...

Bah! Okay, so how do we do this? How can we help each other. My issue is that I'm pre-IR, so far my other levels are fine. With PCOS, they can go wonky at any time.
Fatbet obviously didn't motivate me, what is my problem?
I'll cheer you on! Yoooou can do eet!