<human>: I see that from a recent lab results that my MPV is 13.  My cholestrol is 236, my ldl is 153.  My trycilrides is 185.  I have gained a lot of weight over the last 2 years due to severe stress. My diet hasnt been the best, but not overly bad. Should I be overly concerned with my lab numbers?
<bot>: Hello and thanks for writing. I can understand your concern and would try to help you in the best possible way. Your cholesterol and particularly LDL which is the bad cholesterol is on the higher side. It is probably due to stress and recent weight gain that you have mentioned. I suggest that you immediately go in for some lifestyle changes like:1. Take low fat low calorie diet.2. Avoid fast foods3. Begin a regular physical activity program like walking, jogging or some sports.4. Avoid stress5. Avoid smoking and Chat Doctor.  Set a target weight and start working towards it. Doing the above things will for 3 months will definitely improve your numbers. You need to recheck these results after 3 months and if still elevated you would require a cholesterol lowering medication to achieve the target. You may also get your fasting blood glucose, thyroid levels, HbA1C levels, vitamin D levels checked as they are commonly associated with deranged cholesterol. Furthermore, you may consult your GP and discuss with him reading these investigations.