cholesterol levels

[ldv72247]

My cholesterol level always test over 200 and it is always flagged as "high"    However, my HDL is very high and my LDL low, so my ratio is always wonderful despite the overall level. Is a high cholesterol level something to worry about even if the ratio is good?   My doctor has even mentioned at one time to get on medication to lower it and I chose not to do this.   (trig low also)    This is very confusing to me as high cholesterol is always talked about as being a bad thing...and it usually isn't qualified.    Please advise !  

[Cleveland Clinic]

High LDL is the concerning finding, not high cholesterol.  Total cholesterol has HDL in it and if that particle is in high number it will cause high total cholesterol.  There are also other particles that aren't necessarily acounted for individually but comprise the total score.  What is your LDL and your HDL.  As long as LDL is low and HDL is high, you should be OK.

[ocean12]

Hi there --- I am very interested to hear the answer to your question as I have the same scenario with my levels.  My total is 239, HDL 106, LDL 118 and Trglycerides 65.  My total cholesterol definitely scares me but my ratio is 2.23.  I've heard many mixed comments about having a very high HDL.  Some have said that it's great, while others say that having a very high HDL can actually cause problems with the arteries.  I hope you get an answer for this question!  

I'll be checking back.