🔍 Thinking about statins? Here’s what you need to know!
Statins are a common medication for lowering cholesterol and keeping your heart healthy. But are they right for everyone? 🤔
Recent research reveals that many side effects we associate with statins might not be due to the meds themselves. So, should you be concerned? We spoke to Sindy Jodar, a senior cardiac nurse, who breaks it all down!
đźš« Who might need a pass on statins? If you’ve had allergic reactions to the drugs, have certain liver or kidney issues, or are pregnant/breastfeeding, it’s worth discussing alternatives with your GP.
📉 The upsides? Statins work by reducing ‘bad’ cholesterol (LDL) and can help prevent heart attacks or strokes. They’re typically prescribed if your cholesterol is high or if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease.
👨‍⚕️ Your GP considers several factors—think height, weight, blood pressure, and family history—before suggesting statins. It’s not just about cholesterol levels!
🕒 Dosage details: Statins are usually taken once daily, best at night. Your GP will do regular check-ups, including blood tests, to make sure everything’s running smoothly.
🍽️ Lifestyle matters: Pairing statins with a healthy lifestyle—quitting smoking, staying active, and eating well—can amp up their effectiveness! Also, beware of grapefruit; it can reduce how well statins work.
đź’ˇ Remember, statins are a long-term solution and work best as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle. Even if your cholesterol stabilises, stopping statins suddenly might spike levels again. Always have ongoing conversations with your GP to tailor your treatment plan to your evolving needs.
So, if you’re in the high-risk group for heart disease, statins might just be your heart’s best friend. đź«€ Stay informed and keep the conversation open with your healthcare provider!