Managing Cholesterol and Wound Care: Your Health Questions Answered

Two questions?

Hello Doctor, I received my health check results today as school is starting.
The only red flags were a heart rate of 92 and a cholesterol level of 219.
I would like to ask if there are any methods to lower cholesterol.
I feel that my weight is not high, but this cholesterol level has always been a concern during blood tests.
Additionally, my liver enzyme level is 37, which is close to the safety threshold of 40.
Does this indicate that my liver is not in good condition? 😢
My second question is about an incident that happened today when my sister and I were flipping the bed.
I almost got cut by the metal pull ring, but there was no bleeding.
Should I be worried about infection or developing cellulitis? My sister suggested that I might have a small cut and recommended applying hydrogen peroxide.
Although it doesn't hurt much, it feels a bit itchy.
Should I consider getting a tetanus shot for safety, even though I had one previously? Thank you for your response, Doctor!

O, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/23

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, regarding your health check-up, a heart rate of 92 is still within the normal physiological range, and a liver enzyme level of 37 is also within normal limits, so there is no need to worry.
The only thing you should consider is your cholesterol level of 219; it is recommended to manage it through diet and exercise for about 3 to 6 months, and then check it again.
If it continues to rise, it is advisable to seek medical attention, as you may need to use cholesterol-lowering medication.
If you have received a tetanus shot within the last 5 years, you do not need another one.
For wound care, it is recommended to disinfect with povidone-iodine and avoid using hydrogen peroxide, as it can be too irritating to the wound.
If the wound does not show signs of redness, swelling, heat, pain, or fever afterward, there is no need to worry too much.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2020/10/23

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding cholesterol management and wound care. Let's address each of your concerns in detail.

Managing Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood, and while your body needs it to build healthy cells, having high levels can increase your risk of heart disease. A cholesterol level of 219 mg/dL is considered borderline high, and there are several strategies you can adopt to lower it:
1. Dietary Changes:
- Increase Fiber Intake: Foods high in soluble fiber, such as oats, beans, lentils, fruits, and vegetables, can help reduce cholesterol absorption in your bloodstream.

- Healthy Fats: Replace saturated fats found in red meat and full-fat dairy products with healthier fats found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and mackerel, can also help lower cholesterol levels.

- Limit Trans Fats: Avoid trans fats found in many fried foods and commercial baked products. Check food labels for partially hydrogenated oils.

- Plant Sterols and Stanols: These substances, found in certain fortified foods, can help block the absorption of cholesterol.

2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help raise HDL (good) cholesterol while lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.

3. Weight Management: Even a small amount of weight loss can help reduce cholesterol levels. If you're overweight, losing 5-10% of your body weight can make a significant difference.

4. Medication: If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may recommend medications such as statins to help lower your cholesterol levels.

Regarding your liver enzyme level, a value of 37 is indeed close to the upper limit of normal (40). While it may not indicate a serious issue, it’s essential to monitor it. Factors such as alcohol consumption, certain medications, and fatty liver disease can affect liver enzymes. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol can help maintain liver health.

Wound Care and Infection Prevention
Regarding the injury your sister sustained, even if there is no visible bleeding, it’s essential to take precautions to prevent infection. Here are some steps to consider:
1. Clean the Wound: If there is a small cut or abrasion, gently clean the area with soap and water. Applying hydrogen peroxide can help disinfect the area, but it may cause irritation. After cleaning, you can apply an antibiotic ointment and cover it with a bandage.

2. Monitor for Signs of Infection: Keep an eye on the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. If any of these symptoms develop, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.

3. Tetanus Shot: If your sister's last tetanus shot was more than five years ago and the injury was caused by a dirty or rusty object, it’s advisable to get a booster shot. If it was a clean injury and she is up to date on her vaccinations, she may not need another shot.

4. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If there are any concerns about the wound or if it does not heal properly, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In summary, managing cholesterol involves dietary changes, exercise, and possibly medication, while proper wound care is essential to prevent infection. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Thank you for your questions, and I wish you and your sister good health!

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