4 Heart Attack Symptoms Women Often Dismiss
When most people picture a heart attack, they imagine sudden, crushing chest pain. While that’s the classic symptom, heart attacks can look very different, especially in women. Here’s what you should know.
Why do Statins Sometimes Cause Muscle Pain?
Many people tolerate statins very well. However, some individuals develop muscle aches, weakness, or soreness after starting the medication.
This side effect, known medically as statin-associated muscle symptoms (SAMS), is one of the most frequently reported concerns.
Our team at Premier Cardiology Consultants provides top-level preventive care and interventional services focused on keeping your heart, and thus your body, healthy. We often consider statin therapy, especially when high cholesterol poses a risk to your well-being.
But what about side effects like SAMS, and why do they occur? Our team can shed light on what happens between your muscles and statins and why the benefits often outweigh the risks.
The role statins play in lowering cholesterol
You may be surprised to learn your body needs some cholesterol, even the “bad” type (LDL). It plays an essential role in cellular structure and function, making vitamin D and producing vital substances like hormones.
Fortunately, your liver produces all the cholesterol you’ll ever need. Unfortunately, you also gain cholesterol from the foods you eat. When the levels get too high, LDL buildup in the bloodstream can lead to plaque formation, a leading cause of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.
Statins work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that helps produce cholesterol. By lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol, statins keep plaque from building up in the arteries. In addition to reducing cholesterol, statins also have anti-inflammatory effects that benefit blood vessels.
Although the vast majority of people taking statins experience little difficulty, some individuals may experience changes in muscle metabolism that can lead to discomfort.
Why statins may cause muscle pain
The exact reason statins sometimes cause muscle pain isn’t fully understood, but several credible theories exist:
Energy production in muscles
Statins can reduce levels of a substance called coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which helps muscles produce energy. Lower levels may leave muscles more prone to fatigue or soreness.
Muscle sensitivity
Some people’s muscles may be more sensitive to even small changes in how energy is produced. Genetics may play a role here, which is why not everyone on statins has symptoms.
Medication interactions
Statins are processed in the liver. If you’re taking other medications that use the same pathways, statin levels can build up higher than intended, increasing the chance of side effects.
This reinforces the benefit of sharing a complete medication list with your cardiologist, including prescription meds and supplements you’re taking.
Individual differences
Factors such as age, exercise habits, thyroid problems, or vitamin D deficiency can also increase the likelihood of experiencing muscle aches while taking statins.
If you notice symptoms after starting a statin
Don’t stop the medication on your own. Instead:
Talk to your cardiologist
Sometimes, adjusting the dose, switching to a different statin, or changing how you take it (such as taking it every other day) can help.
We’ll check for other causes
Blood work can rule out thyroid issues, vitamin deficiencies, or medication interactions that may be affecting your muscles.
Lifestyle support can help
Regular stretching, hydration, and gentle exercise may reduce discomfort. In some cases, CoQ10 supplements may help, although results vary.
Still not sure about statins?
Statins can save lives by protecting against heart attack and stroke, but they can cause muscle aches and pains. The key is open communication with your cardiology team.
With the right approach, most individuals can find a statin plan that supports heart health without compromising quality of life.
Schedule an appointment at Premier Cardiology Consultants today. Contact one of our convenient locations in New York.
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