Health and Wellness

Statins myths dispelled: Cholesterol-busting drugs don’t cause memory loss and diabetes

What is the truth about statins Updated: 09:42 EDT, 31 August 2022 Advertisement
Statins have saved many lives and prevented heart attacks and strokes. The 8 million Brits and 32million Americans who take statins are linked to memory and vision problems. MailOnline was told by Professor Sir Nilesh (medical director at the British Heart Foundation) that statins are a proven and important treatment to prevent coronary heart disease. However, there has been a misperception that statins can cause serious side effects such as muscle aches, memory loss, sleep disturbance, and erectile dysfunction. These complaints are common in the general population due to a variety of reasons. Patients who take statins and experience these symptoms often attribute the statin to their condition, even though it may not be the reason. Statins are a class of pills that stop the liver from producing ‘bad’ cholesterol. Statins are a group of pills that stop the liver from producing ‘bad’ cholesterol, also known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This can lead to heart disease and hardened and narrowedarteries. The tablets cost only 20p per pill and have been proven to be life-saving. In 23 randomised trials, researchers compared side effects among 155,000 patients who received statins and placebos. The history of statins1976Alfred Alberts discovered statins while working at Merck Research Laboratories. Dr Endo discovered it independently for Sankyo within one year. Merck started clinical trials in 1980. However, they were stopped after Sankyo tests on the chemically identical mevastatin proved it to be toxic in animals. Merck resumed clinical development in 1983. 1987 Lovastatin is the first statin approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Its first year of sales was more than $1billion. It is sold by Pfizer under the name Lipitor. !– ad at https://mads.dailymail.co.uk/v8/us/health/none/article/other/mpu_factbox.html/id=mpu_factbox_1
In total 27.1 per cent of patients on the drugs reported muscle pain or weakness, compared to 26.6 per cent of those who were given the placebo.After the first year of treatment, there was no difference between those given statins and those given dummy tablets.The researchers found stronger doses carried a slightly higher risk of muscle issues, but most cases are mild.They said the results will help patients and doctors ‘make informed decisions’ when considering if they should stop taking their pills — and should continue taking them unless the drugs are proved to cause the pain.Lead researcher Professor Colin Baigent, an epidemiologist at Oxford, said if a patient on statins suffers muscle pain, it is ‘most likely due to other causes’.CataractsStatins have also been linked with an increased risk of developing cataracts.Cataracts are when the lens, a small transparent disc inside the eye, develops cloudy patches. These patches can grow larger over time, causing blurry vision, misty vision, and eventually blindness. This is the most common surgery in the country. Statins are thought to significantly increase the risk of developing cataracts in people over 40 years old. Peking University First Hospital in Beijing, China conducted a major review in 2016 and concluded that there is no evidence to support the claim that statins increase the risk of developing cataracts in humans. The patients were between 30 and 85 years old. The most likely scenario is that there is no association of statin use with cataracts. This should not stop statins from being used in cardiovascular patients because of their many benefits. MailOnline was told by Sir Nilesh that it is unlikely that statin use is linked to cataracts. This should not be a reason to stop statins being used in cardiovascular patients. What are statins? Statins are a group of medicines that can help lower levels of ‘bad cholesterol’ in the blood.Having too much of this type of cholesterol — called low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol — can lead to the thickening of the arteries and cardiovascular disease.Statins work by stopping the liver from producing as much LDL.Previous studies have found that the drug will prevent one heart attack or stroke for every 50 people taking it over five years.The drug comes as a tablet that is taken once a day.Most people have to take them for life, as stopping will cause their cholesterol to return to a high level within weeks.Some people experience side effects from the medication, including diarrhoea, a headache or nausea.People are usually told to make lifestyle changes in a bid to lower their cholesterol — such as improving diet and exercise habits, limiting alcohol consumption and stopping smoking — before being prescribed statins.Advertisement
The warnings were issued by the medicines watchdog because some people taking statins reported experiencing memory-robbing symptoms. However, studies have shown that they can help to reduce the risk of developing the condition in the long-term. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for memory-robbing conditions. Dr Kristopher Swiger from JHU, a cardiologist, wrote the study. “However, our systematic review of existing data and meta-analysis found no association between short-term statin usage and memory loss or other types cognitive dysfunction. “In fact, longer-term statin usage was associated with protection against dementia. Researchers said it ‘makes sense that statins could be protective in the brain against dementia’ because reducing bad cholesterol improves blood flow to the brain.This helps prevent vascular dementia particular, which is usually caused by blockages in small blood vessels in the brain.HeadachesStatins have been widely linked to headaches since they first exploded on the scene.But Sir Nilesh said the symptom may not actually be being caused by the drugs themselves.Much like with muscle pains, headaches are an everyday occurrence that become more prevalent in old age, when people are more likely to start taking statins.He told MailOnline: ‘Headaches are not uncommon symptom in the general population for a whole variety of reasons. Patients who take statins and experience these symptoms often attribute it to statins, even though they may not be the cause. ‘Some researchers suggest that statins should only be prescribed to patients who have migraines. However, this is a false assumption. Statins have been shown beneficial in migraine sufferers, which may be due to the different processes that cause heart attacks and strokes. “DiabetesHealth” chiefs placed safety warnings on statins bottles after concerns that they could increase blood sugar levels. Statins are highly recommended for most patients. The current guidelines for who statins should be recommended reflect the potential side effects and the cardiovascular benefits to patients. ‘Grapefruit Finally, many statin users are warned not to eat grapefruit because of the fruit’s effect on how the body processes the drug.Grapefruit contains chemicals called furanocoumarins, which block an enzyme in the intestine that normally breaks down statins and some other drugs.This means the statins build up in the bloodstream rather than being processed properly, which can increase the risk of other side effects.But grapefruit only appears to have a large effect on certain statin medications, with others seeing little to no problems.Atorvastatin, sold as Lipitor, lovastatin, sold as Mevacor, and simvastatin, sold as Zocor, are the only drugs known to be particularly affected by the chemicals, according to Dr Jorge Plutzky, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.In contrast, there appears to be no interaction in people taking fluvastatin (Lescol), pitavastatin (Livalo) pravastatin (Pravachol) and rosuvastatin (Crestor).Sir Nilesh said: ‘If you take simvastatin, you shouldn’t drink grapefruit juice as it increases the concentration of the drug in the blood stream, increasing the risk of side effects. You should limit the amount of grapefruit juice you consume if you are taking another statin.
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Health and Wellness

Kroger participates in Food-Related Crisis Conference

Kroger announced its participation last week in the National Convening To Inform the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health at Washington D.C.’s Bipartisan Policy Center. The event was designed to bring together critical viewpoints to help find and consider solutions to many of the U.S.’s chronic problems, including those related to hunger, nutrition, and diet. Zero Waste commitment to help create communities free of hunger and waste as well as our Food As Medicine platform that helps people lives healthier lives. We are grateful to the Task Force on Hunger, Nutrition and Health and the Bipartisan Policy Centre for inviting us to join this important conversation. Zero Waste” impact plan, with which Keith Dailey, Kroger’s group vice president of corporate affairs and chief sustainability officer, notes that the company hopes to direct over three billion meals to feed hungry American families by 2025.The event brought together scientists, nonprofits, community organizations, industry representatives, and congressional leaders to discuss strategies to end hunger, improve nutrition, and reduce diet-related chronic disease in the U.S. by 2030. These topics will be discussed at the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health in September.

Health and Wellness

WHO confirms Marburg Disease: Signs to be aware

WHO confirms Marburg Disease outbreak: Signs you should knowHealth News WHO recently declared Marburg disease an epidemic following its infected many people in central Africa. Here are the facts. What is Marburg disease? Find out more here. The World Health Organisation has recently declared Marburg disease an epidemic. Nine people died in Equatorial Guinea, Central Africa’s first ever outbreak of Marburg disease.

After testing samples from Equatorial Guinea, the global health authority confirmed that the disease was an epidemic. Nearly 200 people were asked to quarantine in order to stop the spread of the disease. There have been previous outbreaks in other parts of Africa such as Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Guinea, South Africa and Uganda. However, this is the first Marburg outbreak in Equatorial Guinea. The disease is highly contagious, so it is important to learn all you can about it. Marburg disease is a bat-borne disease that can spread to people through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and objects.

According to WHO, Marburg disease is similar in appearance to Ebola virus. It is a highly contagious disease with a fatality rate of up to 88 per cent. According to the US Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, Marburg is a rare hemorhagic fever that can cause organ damage and bleeding. It is a zoonotic viral that, along six Ebola viruses, forms the filovirus family. It was first identified in 1967. Symptoms of Marburg disease include fever, diarrhoea and tiredness. The incubation period for the disease is between 2-21 days. Symptoms include:Fever, headaches, myalgia, and nausea. Serious symptoms of Marburg disease. If the disease progresses, it can cause severe symptoms such as:Rash on check, back or stomach Nausea Vomiting Chest pain Sore throat Abdominal pain Diarrhoea. Health authorities may use intravenous fluids or oral rehydration to treat the symptoms of the Marburg virus.

Health and Wellness

Study shows that excessive alcohol intake can increase Covid-19 risk Here are some ways to protect yourself

Study finds that excessive alcohol intake can increase Covid-19 risk How to protect yourself health News Everyone is aware of the side effects that alcohol can have on your health. Did you know that alcohol can make you more susceptible to Covid-19? Drinking too much alcohol can increase your Covid-19 risk. However, alcohol can be dangerous for your health. Although drinking to a reasonable level may not cause harm, excessive amounts of alcohol can have a devastating effect on your health. It can cause problems in your body that you don’t even know about. A new study has shown that excessive alcohol can make you more susceptible to Covid-19.

The side effects of drinking excessive alcohol can make you more susceptible to developing coronavirus disease. This was revealed in a study published in the journal Alcohol: Clinical and Experiment Research. The German study found that excessive drinking can raise levels of the ACE2 enzyme, which is used by coronavirus to enter cells. This increases the chance of contracting the virus through direct exposure. The researchers found that chronic alcohol consumption increases the levels of ACE2 within the lungs of the rats in the study. It was possible that SARS-CoV-2 could infect the lungs. It was possible that SARS-CoV-2 could infect the lungs. Here are some ways to avoid alcohol. You should set a goal. This will help you decide how much alcohol you will drink. It should be within the guidelines.

Limit your alcohol intake to no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women. Keep track of your alcohol intake. Once you have decided how much alcohol you will be drinking, it’s a good idea to keep track of how many drinks you consume each day. Apps can be used to track your alcohol intake. This will help you reduce the risk of Covid-19. Ask for help from family members. It can be difficult, so it is worth sharing the process with family members. You need to have a plan in place for cravings. Make a plan. You need to remind yourself of the dangers of alcohol. Find a hobby, talk with loved ones, or exercise. Find the right distraction for you and make it work. Exercise is a great alternative for alcohol.

Many people turn to alcohol to relieve anxiety. However, exercise can also help. Studies also show that exercising can help with anxiety and stress. Avoid alcohol triggers It could be watching the match. What about getting together with your alcoholic friends? Is it loneliness? If you’re with friends who drink alcohol, try saying “No”. If you are feeling lonely, talk to someone. If you are struggling with alcohol cravings, talk to someone about it. If not quit, at least reduce its intake.

Health and Wellness

Consuming ultra-processed foods can increase your chance of developing cancer.

Home Health News Consuming ultra-processed food can increase your chance of developing cancer. These foods can increase your chances of developing cancer or other diseases. Consuming ultra-processed foods can increase your chance of developing cancer. Ultra-processed food has always had a bad reputation in the world of nutrition. There are endless studies that show the negative effects of eating highly processed foods. Ultra-processed foods include packaged goods such as bread and ready-to-eat cereals. These foods are high in salt, fat and sugar and can cause health problems such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

A new study also suggests that high-processed foods could increase your risk of developing cancer. People tend to eat more ultra-processed food because they are cheap and come in attractive packaging. Ultra-processed foods include bread, biscuits and breakfast cereals, as well as instant soups, carbonated drinks, instant yogurts, fruit-flavored yogurts and ham. The harmful effects of ultra-processed food are well-known.

The World Health Organisation and United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation have restricted the consumption of ultra processed food. They contain harmful ingredients like added sugar, salt, or saturated fats. They also lack dietary fiber and vitamins that are essential for overall health. Several studies have shown that eating foods high in sugar can lead you to obesity, metabolic syndrome, type-2 diabetes, and other conditions. Ultra-processed carbs can cause a rise in blood sugar and insulin levels. A study published in British Medical Journal found that 10 percent more ultra-processed foods could increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disorders, and coronary artery disease. Another study in the same journal found that eating too many processed foods can increase your risk of developing obesity and even cause death.

Unprocessed foods can be replaced with healthier alternatives to reduce your risk of developing unwanted illnesses. It may seem difficult at first but regular consumption of healthy foods can help you stick to healthy eating habits. Keep healthy snacks close by so you don’t feel deprived between meals. Whole grains are rich in fiber which can help reduce your cancer risk. Keep hydrated. We often underestimate the importance of drinking water. Drink at least 10-12 glasses of fluids every day. To increase your nutrient intake, eat more fruits and vegetables. Oatmeal can be substituted for breakfast cereal. Replace processed foods with healthy foods like nuts, salads, and other healthy options. You now know how dangerous processed foods can be. It is time to stop eating unhealthy foods and start eating healthier.

Health and Wellness

Smartphone use can cause vision impairment in women: Are you being cautious?

Home Health News Smartphone use can cause blindness in a woman aged 30 years old. This was recently discovered in Hyderabad. Here are some ways to protect your eyes from vision impairment caused by smartphone use. Smartphone use has led to vision impairment in a woman. How much time do your smartphones consume? Smartphones have become an integral part of people’s daily lives over the past decade. It plays an important role in every day life, from taking photos to managing work. They are very useful, but how much time do you spend on your phone? Worse, you can spend 9-10 hours on your laptop and then look at your phone. Smartphones have many harmful effects.

Smartphones have many negative effects. One example is the Hyderabad woman who was blinded by her smartphone. Manju, a 30-year old woman, was diagnosed with smartphone vision syndrome (SVS) following her use of her phone in the dark for nearly 1.5 years. Dr. Sudhir Kumar shared the tweets. Dr. Sudhir Kumar listed several symptoms, including bright flashes, zigzag patterns and trouble focusing on or seeing certain objects. After further analysis of her past, it was discovered that the disease was caused by her long-term use smartphones. She was not prescribed any medication to relieve her symptoms. Instead, she was advised that she reduce the amount of time she spends on her phone to deal with the condition. Vision impairment can be caused by smartphone use.

After following the advice for a month, she noticed a significant improvement in her condition. “Manju was absolutely fine after a one-month review. Her 18-month vision impairment had disappeared. She now had normal vision and didn’t experience any flashes or floaters of light. Dr. Kumar explained that her night vision loss had also stopped. Numerous studies support this claim. The Annals of Palliative Medicine published a study that found smartphone users are at greater risk of developing near and distant vision loss, ocular surface discomfort, and distance vision loss. Numerous studies, including one published in Journal of Medical Internet Research, have shown that smartphones can cause vision problems in children.

Smartphone use may increase the risk of vision problems in children, such as myopia, asthenopia and ocular surface diseases. Dr. Kumar shared some tips to help people who use smartphones less frequently to avoid severe vision-related symptoms. When using digital screens, follow the 20-20-20 rule. To avoid vision problems, you should take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20ft away. To reduce visual and ocular problems, you should set a time limit, especially for children.