Cholesterol and Aortic Disease
High cholesterol is linked to various manifestations of aortic disease, including aortic stenosis and aneurysm growth. For example, studies have linked high cholesterol to abdominal aortic aneurysm growth. Also, a 2015 study found that high cholesterol is associated with ascending aortic dilations in people with bicuspid aortic valves. Statins are the first line treatment for people with aortic disease and high cholesterol. These medicines can help lower cholesterol, which can help reduce blockages in the arteries and reduce the risk of aneurysm complications. Examples of statins include atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin (Altoprev), simvastatin (Zocor, FloLipid) and others. In addition to statins,…