HI I have a low white blood cell count and a high LDL cholestrol reading. The cholestrol has risen since Sept.even though my weight hasnt changed and I eat a very healthy diet. My problem is lack of sleep due to night sweats - and I mean real lack of sleep for 2 years.I know this can affect the white cells but would it affect the cholestrol? Thanks Glenda
Hi Glenda, Welcome to Chat Doctor. Although sleep deprivation and high lipid levels can coexist in an individual, whether there is any causal relationship between the two is unclear. It can be expected that sleep deprivation causes sympathetic nervous activation that in turn can cause metabolic disturbances such as increase in blood levels of free fatty acids. However, to arrive at this conclusion more research needs to be done. However, I will advise that you consult your physician for your sleep deprivation as it can not only affect your metabolism but also other physiological systems in your body particular cardiovascular. Hope this helps.