Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Statins

Chronic Kidney Disease

Important Information About Your Kidney Test Results

We have reviewed your recent blood test results and these show that your kidney function is slightly lower than expected.

This is not uncommon and does not necessarily mean there is a serious problem. Kidney function often gradually reduces with age. The medical term used for this finding is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

Please be reassured that CKD is very common, and many people are now diagnosed simply because blood tests are widely available. In most cases, particularly when identified early, it can be safely monitored by your GP.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

The most common cause of CKD is age-related changes in the kidneys. Around 1 in 10 adults have some degree of CKD, increasing to around half of people over the age of 75.

In many people, CKD remains mild or moderate and does not progress further unless other conditions are present. Other common causes include:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Diabetes
  • Long-term use of certain medications

Why is CKD Important?

Most people with mild or moderate CKD have no symptoms, and it is often discovered during routine blood tests.

If kidney function worsens, symptoms may develop such as:

  • Tiredness
  • Nausea
  • Swelling due to fluid retention

More advanced cases may require referral to a kidney specialist, although this is not needed for most patients.

How is CKD Managed?

CKD is a long-term condition with no cure, but it can usually be monitored and managed effectively.

Most patients only require annual monitoring at their GP surgery, which includes:

  • Blood tests to check kidney function, cholesterol and blood sugar
  • Urine tests to look for protein leakage (an indicator of kidney damage)

The main aims of treatment are to slow progression and reduce the risk of complications, particularly heart disease and stroke, which are more common in people with CKD.

Key Areas of Management

It is important to ensure:

  • Blood pressure is well controlled
    Target is usually below 140/90 mmHg (or 135/85 mmHg if measured at home)
  • Blood sugar is controlled, especially if you have diabetes
  • Cholesterol is well managed

National guidelines recommend that most people with CKD are offered a cholesterol-lowering medication called atorvastatin to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Lifestyle Advice

Alongside medical treatment, a healthy lifestyle is strongly recommended:

  • Stop smoking
  • Limit alcohol to no more than 14 units per week
  • Eat a balanced, healthy diet
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Stay physically active

Free local support is available through Live Life Better Derbyshire:
https://www.livelifebetterderbyshire.org.uk/home.aspx

Statins and CKD

Statins lower cholesterol and reduce the build-up of fatty deposits in blood vessels, helping to prevent heart attacks and strokes.

People with CKD have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly if protein is present in the urine. Statins significantly reduce this risk and are recommended for most patients with CKD.

Recommended dose:
Atorvastatin 20mg once daily (as per UK guidelines)

Monitoring and Targets

  • Aim for a 40% reduction in non-HDL (“bad”) cholesterol
  • Blood tests will be arranged several months after starting treatment
  • Dosage may be adjusted depending on results

Possible Side Effects

Most people tolerate statins very well. Mild side effects may include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhoea

Muscle pain can occur, although this is uncommon. Severe muscle problems are very rare. If you develop significant muscle pain, please contact the surgery.

Liver monitoring:
Blood tests are recommended before starting statins, and again at 3 and 12 months. Mild changes are usually harmless and simply monitored.

Alternatives to Statins

If statins are not suitable for you, alternative medications may be available. Lifestyle changes remain an essential part of reducing cardiovascular risk and work best alongside medication.

What Should You Do Next?

Please take time to read this information and consider the benefits and risks. If you would like to discuss your results or starting treatment, please book an appointment with a GP or practice pharmacist, who will be happy to help.