I posted a while ago that I was having pains and attributed it to statins. I went off statins and made the rounds of different doctors to explore all options. Well, first of all I changed my primary doctor. I saw a vascular surgeon thinking it was a circulation problem. Turns out my circulation is fine. My new primary doctor sent me for x-rays of my pelvis and lower spine to check out arthritis of the spine. I am awaiting those results. New doctor took blood and called me with very upsetting news. First of all, it does look like arthritis and not the statins which was causing my pain. Secondly, he wants me back on lovastatin immediately. Hold onto your hats...here are my new numbers: I went off the statins in July of this year.
Total Cholesterol 358
LDL 238
HDL 62
TRI 292
HDL ratio 5.8

I am now taking 40 mg lovastatin. I have increased my fish oil to 3 times a day. Thinking about niacin. Have to return in two months for more blood work. Any suggestions? Thanks.
Janice

JanD,

I would be cautious about taking Niacin and Lovastatin together. Both are toxic to the liver, and you may be overdoing it to take both.

Fish oil in the doses you are taking will probably not reduce your cholesterol, in fact, it may raise it. My doctor said it takes at least 6 grams of Fish Oil daily before you notice any reduction in HDL.

I'd recommend staying on the statin, stay at your current level of fish oil (it is good for you regardless of whether it lowers your cholesterol), and if necessary modify your diet.

Cut back on saturated fats. Avoid trans fats.

Cut back on processed foods.

Cut back on white carbs (white rice,bread,pasta).

Avoid sugars and limit alcohol to 1 drink daily.

Are you taking a low-dose aspirin daily? It fights inflammation and helps make your platelets less sticky, reducing the risk of clotting.

HubbleRules
:cool: