Dr Rosemary

MEDICAL ADVICE COLUMNIST OF THE YEAR

called lipoproteins. There are two main types: low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and high density cholesterol (HDL).

LDL is often known as “bad cholesterol” as high levels can increase the risk of fatty deposits occurring in the walls of arteries, narrowing them and increasing the risk of a heart attack or a stroke.

HDL, on the other hand, works in the opposite way and can help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Whenever you have your cholesterol measured, it’s important to get the levels of each of these. LDL should be below 3mmo/L, and HDL above 1.2. The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL (that is the level of total cholesterol divided by the HDL level) should be 4.5 or less.

This means that for your total cholesterol level, your HDL level should be above 1.77.

The best way of reducing a raised LDL level is with statins but if you can’t tolerate these, altering your diet, cutting out saturated fats and having more oats can help a little. You can boost your HDL levels by avoiding trans fats (found in some ready-prepared baked goods made with shortening, fried foods and some margarines) and increasing the amount of exercise you do.

Changes in levels can usually be seen in people who manage to do at least one hour of moderate intensity exercise (that is, exercise that makes you quite puffed) each week.

Moderate use of alcohol has also been shown to increase HDL levels but make sure you do not go above 14 units a week or you are likely to do more harm than good.

Drugs that are used to lower fatty acids levels, known as fibrates, can also increase HDL levels and these may be an option for you to try. They are only available on prescription so see your GP again. Q A ALTHOUGH many splinters do eventually work their own way out, the reverse can happen

WHAT is the best way to remove a splinter?