Abnormal Health Check Results: What You Need to Know

Health check-up

Hello, doctor: A few days ago, my school conducted health checks, and I have a few values that are not quite normal.
Could you please explain what these values mean? What should I pay attention to on a regular basis? Thank you! T-G Triglycerides 324 mg/dL.
Additionally, my mother's cholesterol is also high! What should we pay attention to on a regular basis?

Mr. Zhang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/02/11

Dr. Hong Shouhong reply Family Medicine

Cholesterol and triglycerides are components of blood lipids.
Elevated levels of these two values indicate abnormal blood lipid levels, which can lead to an increased risk of vascular obstruction and vascular wall lesions, subsequently raising the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and myocardial infarction.
It is important to engage in regular exercise to control body weight, reduce the intake of high-fat foods, and undergo regular blood tests for monitoring to stay away from cardiovascular diseases.

Reply Date: 2004/02/11

More Info

Understanding abnormal health check results can be quite daunting, especially when it comes to interpreting specific values and their implications for your health. In your case, the triglyceride (T-G) level of 324 mg/dL is notably elevated, as normal levels are typically below 150 mg/dL. High triglycerides can be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, pancreatitis, and metabolic syndrome. It is essential to understand what this means for your overall health and what steps you can take to manage it.

What Elevated Triglycerides Mean
Elevated triglycerides can result from several factors, including:
1. Diet: High intake of sugars, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can lead to increased triglyceride levels. Foods like sugary beverages, white bread, and fried foods are common culprits.

2. Obesity: Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, can contribute to higher triglyceride levels.

3. Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can negatively impact your triglyceride levels.

4. Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can raise triglyceride levels significantly.

5. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney disease can also lead to elevated triglycerides.

6. Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to high triglycerides, known as familial hypertriglyceridemia.

Recommendations for Managing High Triglycerides
To manage elevated triglyceride levels, consider the following lifestyle changes:
1. Dietary Modifications:
- Reduce Sugar Intake: Limit foods high in sugar, including sweets and sugary drinks.

- Choose Healthy Fats: Opt for unsaturated fats found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts instead of saturated and trans fats.

- Increase Fiber: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet, as fiber can help lower triglyceride levels.

- Limit Alcohol: If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation or consider abstaining altogether.

2. Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week. Activities like walking, cycling, or swimming can help lower triglycerides and improve overall cardiovascular health.

3. Weight Management: If you are overweight, losing even a small percentage of your body weight can significantly impact your triglyceride levels.

4. Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your triglyceride levels through regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. This will help you assess the effectiveness of your lifestyle changes.

Family History and Cholesterol
You mentioned that your mother has high cholesterol levels. Family history can play a significant role in cholesterol levels, and it is essential to be aware of this when considering your health. High cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

What to Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider
Given your elevated triglyceride levels and your mother's high cholesterol, it would be wise to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider. They may recommend:
- Lipid Panel Testing: To assess your cholesterol levels, including LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol).

- Further Evaluation: Depending on your family history and other risk factors, your doctor may suggest additional tests or screenings.

- Medication: In some cases, lifestyle changes may not be sufficient, and medication may be necessary to manage triglyceride and cholesterol levels effectively.

Conclusion
In summary, elevated triglycerides can indicate potential health risks, and it is crucial to take proactive steps to manage them. By making dietary changes, increasing physical activity, and maintaining regular check-ups, you can significantly improve your health outcomes. Additionally, understanding your family history and discussing it with your healthcare provider will help you create a comprehensive plan for your health. Always remember that early intervention and lifestyle modifications can lead to better health and well-being.

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