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Statins are a medication that is prescribed for people who have high cholesterol. Their primary function is to lower the bad cholesterol in your blood and therefore they reduce the chances of you having a heart attack. This is undoubtedly an important function and the role of statins within the world of cardiology is well respected. However, those who take statins may feel differently!
Possible Side Effects of Statins
Some, but not all people who take statins report that they make their legs ache and they develop muscular pains throughout their body. Others report that the statins make them feel tired and as if they have less energy.
Many cardiologists do not believe that this is the case, or they believe that the risk of muscular pains has to be offset against the benefits that statins can bring. In short, you can have a few aches and pains and a lower cholesterol reading, meaning that your heart will function better, or you can stop taking the statins, have pain free legs and your poor old heart will be put under pressure. From the point of view of healthcare professionals, the preferred option becomes the lower cholesterol.
But there is another side to statins. This was revealed in 2009 by a study undertaken by Iowa State University. They found that statins may actually inhibit or suppress the chemical in the brain known as serotonin. Serotonin is the brain's 'feel good' chemical and if your brain is not releasing enough serotonin then you may be prone to depression or have difficulty concentrating.
The other revealing aspect of this study was that the overall cholesterol within the body is reduced by statins and the amount of cholesterol within the brain actually is reduced by taking statins. Yet conversely our brains actually need cholesterol in order to function effectively.
Given that it is well documented that many people develop anxiety or depression after a heart attack, it seems that taking statins may not help this situation. In short, if someone has had a heart attack and are prone to depression/anxiety and then is taking a medication daily that may actually affect the brain and stop the brain feeling good and which can impede memory and concentration, is potentially a recipe for anxiety.
Lack of Solution
Unfortunately there is no easy solution to this situation. Some people recommend taking a supplement known as COQ 10, others recommend changing statins until you find one that is right for you. The important thing is to discuss any side effects that you think you may be having with your cardiology team and ensure that you don't just suffer in silence!
About this Author
Libbie Johnson is a freelance ghostwriter, who has recently published an ebook 'Life After A Loved One Has A Heart Attack' a survival guide for anyone living with a person who has had a heart attack. Passionate about health and heart issues, please check out Libbie's e-book and other information at ' http://www.afteraheartattack.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Libbie_Johnson
