Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is a necessary structural component for your cells and tissues and also as a precursor to hormone molecules. While cholesterol is necessary, too much of it can be a bad thing. Your cholesterol comes from two sources, your diet and your liver. There are several ways to manage healthy cholesterol levels, including lifestyle modifications and the use of medications like Lipitor.
Coronary Heart Disease
Excessive blood cholesterol can cause fatty plaque deposits to build up inside your blood vessel walls. This may lead to coronary heart disease and hardening of your arteries, also known as atherosclerosis. Cholesterol plaques and hardened arteries reduce vessel flexibility and the available space for blood to flow through, which can reduce the amount of oxygen that gets back to your heart. Blockage of an artery that leads to your heart will most likely result in a heart attack, and possibly even death. Healthy cholesterol levels should be controlled through medications like Lipitor, low-fat diets and exercise.
Stroke
Cholesterol-rich blood may cause arterial plaques to form, which may lead to the formation of blood clots. According to MayoClinic.com, arterial blood clot formation may rupture and block the blood flow to other parts of your body, including your brain, causing a stroke. A stroke may result in serious complications, including paralysis, pain and cognitive decline.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Statins, like Lipitor, are the leading class of drugs used to lower cholesterol by inhibiting the natural synthesis of cholesterol in your liver. According to Lipitor.com, minor side effects include gastrointestinal ailments like abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Additionally, Lipitor may cause liver damage, especially for those who may already have liver problems. Contact your physician if you experience any unreasonable or unbearable gastrointestinal side effects while taking Lipitor.
Muscle Damage
There is a potential for developing a rare muscular condition while taking Lipitor to lower your cholesterol. According to Drugs.com, statins like Lipitor have been shown to cause myopathy and rhabdomyolosis, which is an inadvertent breakdown of muscle tissue. Rhabdomyolosis increases the levels of protein in your blood, which can overwhelm the kidneys. If this condition is not treated promptly, it can lead to severe kidney damage or complete kidney failure.
