Which Specialist to See for Abnormal Health Check Results? - Family Medicine

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When faced with abnormal health check results, such as elevated white blood cell esterase levels and total cholesterol readings above the recommended threshold, it is essential to consult the appropriate specialist for further evaluation and management. In your case, the two primary concerns are the elevated white blood cell esterase and the high total cholesterol.

1. Elevated White Blood Cell Esterase: This result often indicates the presence of white blood cells in the urine, which can suggest a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other underlying issues such as inflammation or infection in the urinary system. Given that you do not have symptoms like frequent urination, blood in urine, or pain, it is still prudent to follow up with a specialist. The most appropriate specialist for this issue would be a Urologist. A urologist specializes in urinary tract disorders and can conduct further tests, such as a urinalysis or urine culture, to determine the cause of the elevated esterase levels and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.

2. High Total Cholesterol: Your total cholesterol level of 235 mg/dL exceeds the recommended level of 200 mg/dL, which could increase your risk for cardiovascular diseases. For this concern, you should consult a Cardiologist or your Primary Care Physician (PCP). A cardiologist specializes in heart and vascular health and can assess your overall cardiovascular risk, recommend lifestyle changes, and if necessary, prescribe medications to help manage your cholesterol levels. Your PCP can also provide guidance on diet, exercise, and may refer you to a cardiologist if needed.


Additional Considerations
- Lifestyle Modifications: Regardless of the specialist you choose to see, it is essential to consider lifestyle changes that can help manage both cholesterol levels and overall health. This includes adopting a heart-healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins), engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.

- Follow-Up Testing: Depending on the findings from your consultations, your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up tests. For cholesterol management, this could include a lipid panel to monitor your cholesterol levels over time. For the urinary issue, further urinalysis or imaging studies may be warranted.

- Comprehensive Health Assessment: Given that both elevated cholesterol and abnormal urinary findings can be indicative of broader health issues, it may be beneficial to have a comprehensive health assessment. This could involve checking other parameters such as blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and kidney function tests.

In summary, for your elevated white blood cell esterase, see a urologist, and for your high cholesterol, consult a cardiologist or your primary care physician. Both specialists can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific health needs. Remember, early intervention and management are key to preventing potential complications associated with these findings.