Statins are daily medications designed to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly known as "bad cholesterol." They achieve this by actively reducing the production of this cholesterol inside the liver. Maintaining high levels of LDL cholesterol carries considerable dangers for a person's long-term health. Specifically, it can significantly heighten the risks of suffering from strokes, heart attacks, angina, and coronary heart disease.
Common Side Effects
While the vast majority of patients do not experience any issues, some individuals may encounter mild, unwanted side effects. Depending on the specific statin, these can include common ailments like nausea, headaches, constipation, diarrhoea, or dizziness. Patients are advised to speak with a doctor or pharmacist if any minor side effects become bothersome or fail to go away. In these cases, a medical professional may recommend lowering the medication dosage or switching to a different type of statin.
When to Stop Taking Statins Immediately
The NHS warns patients to stop taking their medication and contact a doctor or call 111 immediately if they experience unexplained muscle pain or severe stomach pain. These specific symptoms can serve as early warning signs for serious conditions like kidney damage or acute pancreatitis. Immediate medical advice is also required if a patient develops a blotchy skin rash or notices the yellowing of their skin and eyes. These changes are critical to report because they can indicate serious underlying issues like erythema multiforme or liver problems.
Patients should also seek swift medical attention if they experience a persistent cough, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss. Furthermore, sudden limb weakness or breathing difficulties after activity should be reported immediately, as they may indicate lung disease or myasthenia gravis. Patients must call 999 or go straight to A&E if they develop severe breathing difficulties or signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as sudden swelling of the mouth. Emergency services are also required if someone becomes unresponsive, faints, or exhibits sudden, extreme confusion.
