People who are more susceptible to the statins side effects are those taking multiple medications to lower their cholesterol. Women are more susceptible than men. People with small frames and over the age of 65 will have suffered more side effects. And people who have either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes or either existing liver disease or kidney disease will more likely experience statins side effects.
How statins work within your body has something to do with the appearance of side effects although the exact reasons for some side effects are still unknown (muscle pain). Statins are effective in slowing down the production of cholesterol by your body. The body needs cholesterol to aid in digestion and the production of new cells. With the body’s production center slowed down, it will pull the cholesterol it needs from the food you eat which lowers your total cholesterol.
Researchers believe that statins not only affect the production of cholesterol in your liver but also certain enzymes that are essential for muscle growth throughout the body. This may be the cause of muscle pain or aches. The muscle pain associated with statins side effects can range from simple soreness to tiredness and a weakness in the affected muscles. The severity can increase to the point that it is difficult to climb stairs or to even walk.
We will now discuss some other potential statins side effects. A couple of additional side effects include the possibility of digestive problems, rashes or flushing, neurological problems and liver damage. Digestive problems that may develop are diarrhea, nausea or constipation after taking a statin. These side effects are rather rare and seem to arise in those patients already prone to digestive problems. The statin use seems aggravate existing conditions. To forestall the additional side effects it is recommended that any statins be taken with food at the evening meal. While statins side effects can be uncomfortable, the alternative of increased risk of heart attack or stroke is much worse.