Inconsistent test results?

Written by

Tue, January 15, 2008

Two months ago my cholesterol was measured at 293 mg. Test was repeated since I had never had a reading above 195 before. Second test was 295. I started Lipitor (40 mg), increased my exercise slightly and decreased fat intake a little. 3 weeks later I had a blood test at a different lab-cholesterol results 170 mg. Can an individual's cholesterol level change that much or are the lab results variable?

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Sue

1/16/08 9:10pm

Thanks so much for your post.

I'm a new moderator for this site. Though I am not medically trained, I am here to help posters find answers to questions about cholesterol as well as to lend an ear or a smile where I can. I hope I can also generate some threads of discussion around various posts.

So let's get to your question. I searched our site and was able to find a few things that might be of interest to you. The first is a post written by our expert Steve Kang . He discusses the effects of diet and medication - and a few of his points talk in terms of percentages of change.

I also was able to find more info on Lipitor as well as a section on lifestyle changes that can effect cholesterol.

Let me know if this helps or if you are looking for something more.

All the best, sue

Mia

1/11/09 11:44am

DId you ever find an answer to this? I am experinecing the same thing.

cjwmson

1/14/09 10:02pm

Mia,

I stopped taking Lipitor for a month and my cholesterol returned to 276 mg. I also changed doctors and am now on Lipitor, 10 mg/day. My cholesterol level has varied widely over the past 15 years (without medication), from 170 to 298, but for the past year has remained high unless I take Lipitor. No one has an explanation for why my values have varied so much. I have never gained or lost large amounts of weight or significantly changed my exercise or eating habits. Good luck! Maybe you will find an answer.

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