Cholesterol control

Hi, unknown to me my doctor contacted a specialist following my recent blood test results. I had a phone call out of the blue from the specialist asking which statin I was talking. I explained that I cannot tolerate the severe side effects and am not taking any, which my local surgery knows. I had 4 stents fitted following a heart attack last August and was told that I needed to be on a statin. When I enquired of the cardio team how bad was my cholesterol and what were the figures, the reply was 'oh we don't use numbers any more' and they left.

The consultant explained that I should start injections as soon as. I asked him how bad it was and he said cholesterol is 5 and bad LDL is 2.4.

I am a bit confused as this figure is good according to NHS own figures. Anybody else experiencing similar problems and being bullied in to statins?

[RufusScamp]

I had a similar experience. I was offered statins but said no. My values were roughly the same as yours. I did not feel bullied, but everything I have read makes me query the whole statin/cholesterol issue. (A recent angiogram showed no problems.)

[Hidden in reply to RufusScamp]

Hi, thanks for replying. I am becoming more sceptical about statins the more I read. My younger sister has been on Atorvastatin for ten years and now has blocked coronary arteries. Her cholesterol is very good.

[RufusScamp in reply to Hidden]

It is very difficult to find accurate up-to-date information. There is so much dangerous rubbish especially on the internet, and I always find myself asking "who is paying for this study?" I trust this site more than most, but my decision re statins is mine alone. I would not advise anyone else one way or another.

[Hidden in reply to RufusScamp]

Thanks I appreciate your feedback. The Internet is full of conspiracy theories regarding big pharmas funding research and lowering thresholds to sell more drugs eg blood pressure, blood glucose and of course cholesterol. Seems the medical profession is divided. Gonna have a long chat with my GP before starting my treatment.

[IgottaStent]

The statin argument divides the medical profession. I cannot take them either . I read Dr Malcolm Kendricks book and blog about “The cholesterol Con “ it works for me . Statins do have an effect of stabilising plaque. Plaque he feels is a response to inflammation in the arteries. Reducing inflammation is good. That through the right foods and destressing your life . It’s a good read and good blog . Backed by various High ranking medical and scientific co respondents .

[Hidden in reply to IgottaStent]

Hi, thanks for replying. I am reading more about statins and yes the medical profession seems very divided. I eat a low carb Mediterranean type diet and my cholesterol is in the NHS normal range. I get the impression they want it lower because of the stents.