Your Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Blood Sugar, and Medication Effects

Blood report

Hello Dr.
Hong, about a month ago I had a blood test at the hospital.
The results showed total cholesterol at 210, LDL cholesterol at 144, blood glucose at 105, hemoglobin A1c at 5.3, and potassium at 5.3.
I checked the standard values online and found that they are all above the normal range, but the doctor only advised me to pay attention to the cholesterol issue and did not mention or remind me about the others.
Does the doctor think they are not a concern? Additionally, I take a sleep aid called Anbang before bed, usually half to one tablet, but I experience dizziness.
Could this be a side effect of the medication? Thank you for your response.

Xiao Zhang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/25

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, although your blood sugar is slightly elevated, your glycated hemoglobin is normal, so there should be no issue with diabetes.
Your potassium level is slightly high, but if your kidney function is normal, it may be due to constipation or decreased excretion, which usually does not have a significant impact.
Therefore, the main concern is still the cholesterol issue.
I recommend managing this primarily through diet and exercise; if it does not decrease, then medication treatment may need to be considered.
As for the dizziness, it is indeed a common side effect of sleeping pills.
You might consider taking the sleeping medication a bit earlier and see if that improves your dizziness the next day.
If it does not improve and the dizziness is bothersome, you may need to ask your physician to prescribe a different sleeping medication.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/08/25

More Info

Understanding your blood test results can be quite daunting, especially when it comes to interpreting values related to cholesterol, blood sugar, and the effects of medications. Let's break down your results and address your concerns.

Cholesterol Levels
Your total cholesterol level is 210 mg/dL, which is considered borderline high. The breakdown shows that your LDL (low-density lipoprotein), often referred to as "bad cholesterol," is at 144 mg/dL. Ideally, LDL levels should be below 100 mg/dL for optimal heart health. High levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Your healthcare provider's focus on cholesterol is warranted, as managing cholesterol levels is crucial for cardiovascular health. Lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and possibly medication may be recommended to lower your LDL levels.

Blood Sugar Levels
Your blood sugar level is 105 mg/dL, which is slightly above the normal fasting range (typically 70-99 mg/dL). While this level does not indicate diabetes, it is considered prediabetes, which means you are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. The glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of 5.3% is within the normal range (below 5.7%), indicating that your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months have been normal. However, it is essential to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent progression to diabetes.

Potassium Levels
Your potassium level is 5.3 mEq/L, which is within the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Elevated potassium levels can lead to serious heart problems, but your level is not concerning at this point. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet that includes potassium-rich foods while monitoring your levels, especially if you have any underlying kidney issues.

Medication Effects
You mentioned taking a sleep aid (安邦) and experiencing dizziness. Dizziness can indeed be a side effect of many medications, including sleep aids. It’s essential to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your dosage or consider alternative medications. Additionally, combining sleep aids with other medications or alcohol can exacerbate side effects, so it’s crucial to take them as directed.

Conclusion
While your doctor may have focused on your cholesterol levels, it is essential to consider the entirety of your blood test results. Your blood sugar levels, while not alarming, indicate a need for vigilance regarding your diet and lifestyle to prevent future complications. The dizziness you experience may be related to your medication, and it would be wise to consult your doctor about this issue.

In summary, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels is vital for long-term health. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, lifestyle modifications, and monitoring your symptoms will help you maintain your health and prevent potential complications. Always feel empowered to ask your doctor questions about your health and treatment options.

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