Should You Seek Medical Attention for Chronic Low Cholesterol?

Q: Should You Seek Medical Attention for Chronic Low Cholesterol?

Hello, internet user： A certain level of cholesterol must be present in the body to maintain normal structure and function. <br>Individuals with trauma, surgery, cancer, or infections, as well as those with liver, gallbladder, or gastrointestinal diseases, may have a reduced abil

Long-term low cholesterol levels?

Is it necessary to seek medical attention for long-term low cholesterol levels? Since middle school through college, my cholesterol has continuously decreased with age, and my total cholesterol is now only 88.
I have poor physical strength, easily get fatigued, often experience headaches, have low immunity, and a slow metabolism.
Despite eating normally, I easily gain weight, have difficulty digesting food, and frequently suffer from constipation.
Additionally, I took medication for recurrent rheumatoid issues about a year ago.

@@@@, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/05/12

Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine

Hello, internet user: A certain level of cholesterol must be present in the body to maintain normal structure and function.
Individuals with trauma, surgery, cancer, or infections, as well as those with liver, gallbladder, or gastrointestinal diseases, may have a reduced ability to absorb and synthesize cholesterol, which can lead to levels falling below the standard range.
This is one of the indicators that signal a problem in the body's condition, suggesting malnutrition, and is often accompanied by poor immunity and physical weakness.
Prolonged low cholesterol levels require medical attention, and it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2015/05/12

More Info

Chronic low cholesterol levels, particularly when total cholesterol drops to 88 mg/dL, can indeed warrant medical attention. While high cholesterol is often discussed in the context of cardiovascular disease risk, low cholesterol can also have significant health implications. Your symptoms of fatigue, headaches, poor resistance to illness, slow metabolism, and digestive issues may be interconnected with your low cholesterol levels.

1. Understanding Cholesterol Levels: Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood, essential for building cells and producing hormones. It is carried through the bloodstream by lipoproteins, primarily low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). While LDL is often labeled "bad" cholesterol due to its association with heart disease, HDL is considered "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. The total cholesterol level is a sum of these components, and a level below 160 mg/dL is generally considered low.

2. Potential Causes of Low Cholesterol: Low cholesterol can result from various factors, including malnutrition, certain medical conditions (like hyperthyroidism or liver disease), and the use of specific medications. In your case, the history of taking medication for rheumatoid arthritis may have affected your cholesterol levels. Some medications can interfere with cholesterol metabolism, leading to lower levels.

3. Health Implications: Chronic low cholesterol can be associated with several health issues. Research suggests that low cholesterol levels may be linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, hemorrhagic stroke, and mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Your symptoms of fatigue and poor immune response could also be related to low cholesterol, as cholesterol plays a role in hormone production and cellular function.

4. When to Seek Medical Attention: Given your total cholesterol level of 88 mg/dL and the accompanying symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation, including blood tests to assess liver function, thyroid function, and nutritional status. They may also review your medication history to determine if any drugs could be contributing to your low cholesterol levels.

5. Management and Treatment: If a medical evaluation confirms that your low cholesterol is causing health issues, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, nutritional supplements, or adjustments to your current medications. Increasing your intake of healthy fats (like those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil) can help raise cholesterol levels. Additionally, addressing any underlying health conditions is crucial for restoring balance.

6. Lifestyle Considerations: Alongside medical treatment, lifestyle modifications can support overall health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in whole foods, and stress management techniques can enhance your well-being. Staying hydrated and ensuring adequate fiber intake can also help with digestion and metabolic function.

In conclusion, chronic low cholesterol levels, especially when accompanied by symptoms like fatigue and digestive issues, should not be ignored. Seeking medical advice is essential to identify any underlying causes and to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses both your cholesterol levels and overall health.

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