Statins are a class of drug used to treat high cholesterol. They do this by lowering lipid counts, and have been found to be very effective in helping those that have found themselves at high risk of a coronary event. High cholesterol can lead to a heart attack or a stroke, and treating the condition before it becomes problematic is the best way to counter the likelihood of fatal cardiovascular illness. Over recent years though, statins have gained a bad reputation because of the many side effects that come along with them. New research has condemned this new way of thinking about statins and points back to the many benefits that the drug class carries, stating that for most, the good easily outweighs the bad. In fact, the most recent report that was published in The Lancet indicated that the benefits coming from statins have actually been underestimated.
Statin use has many benefits, but there are side effects, too. Talk to a doctor if you have questions.
When it comes to the impact that high cholesterol can have on someone, the severity of the issue can be as negative as premature death. Heart attacks and strokes can be deadly, and even those that survive an event often find themselves disabled and in need of in-home care or some other type of senior care. Oftentimes, there is even a need for spending the remainder of their life in a nursing home or hospital. No one wants to experience anything like this, and no one wants to see a family member go through something so awful. This is why awareness of the issue at hand, and knowing how to treat it before the worst actually happens, is so smart. You need to know what is going on, and you need to help your loved one to get the type of treatment that will help them the most.
The most common side effects of statin use includes headaches, dizziness, rashes, and diarrhea, to name a few. However, there are some serious side effects that can occur that are very grave, such as memory loss, confusion, high blood sugar, and an increased risk of diabetes. These are very real threats, and if you think there is a chance that you are experiencing any of these, you should see a doctor immediately. On a side note, you should know that those patients with diabetes are seeing much less usage of statins, indicating that the medical community has seen the risk that exists here, and has responded appropriately to keep people safe.
Statins do have a place in our medical community, and there is a strong chance that you or someone in your family could benefit from them. It’s important to have your lipid levels tested, and then talk with your doctor about the best way to stay healthy. Yes, there are risks to lipid use, but that’s true of any medication. The goal is to do more good than bad. If you have further concerns or questions about any medication that you or your elderly loved one is taking, see a doctor that knows the appropriate medical history right away.
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