12/25/05

Not for me; maybe for you?

by mitm

I had three heart-disease riskfactors: Im male, my father has heart-disease, my BP was 130/85. My cholesterol was tested during my first checkup at Dr. Weeks. Three days later the nurse called and told me my LDL was 130, my HDL was 37 and that I should come in to discuss "medication options". I was annoyed drugs were suggested so quickly and had to persuade Dr Weeks to agree to me trying nutritional and exercise changes. Two months later, after small changes in nutrition and exercise, my LDL decreased to 125, my HDL increased to 38, my BP was 121/80. My situation was improving. However, medication was again pushed. I felt drugs were the easy way out, but not the best route for my health. I dont want to be chronically medicated! Maybe I'm interpreting my progress optimistically, but I prefer doctors who push the best routes, not the easiest.

• Pros: clear communicator