My doctor insists on seeing me every 6 months and he schedules a blood test one week before each visit. The blood test becomes the "basis" for judging my health status.
As you might guess, I just went through this 6 month routine and I'm beginning to hate it. The blood test measures 10-12 different things such as cholesterol, protein levels and blood pressure. When taken in total, the blood test information says that I'm medically good for an older person. But, the Doctor hones in on one or two readings and makes suggestions on how to improve. I've learned to dislike this analytical process. Hey, my high reading on the cholesterol is 134. Anything under 180-200 is pretty good. The lower end of my reading is 30. That is borderline for where they like the number but it is considered normal. So the "net" is my cholesterol overall is pretty good. Maybe really good for my age.
Now my secret. I don't do well with people telling me what to do! No, you say! It is part of human nature to challenge authority but I work at it a little harder the most people.
My doctor keeps dwelling on the 30 reading at the low end of the cholesterol range. Apparently my efforts should be aimed first at more exercise and second at losing some weight. More exercise doesn't seem reasonable especially since I walk 3-4 miles every day (for over an hour). So my other option is weight loss. Who wants to hear that? I can't believe he is telling me to lose weight.
You get the idea. I pay big bucks. I get expert advice. I try to suppress the suggestions. I resist.
So where does that leave me? I made it past my 6 month check-up and I don't have to go back until April, 2007. Try as I may, I can't eliminate the Doctor's advice from my mind. Hey, maybe I got what I paid for! I got expert advice on my health that I can process any way I want. What will I do? What will I do?
The lesson here is that we have access to some of the best medical adivice in the world. Use those resources wisely (not without thought). The choices are yours. You'll find the path that is best for you!
Love,
Dad