Statins and Fatty Liver

[Kettl]

Can anyone give me some advice. I’ve been put on a statin for my cholesterol. My G.P then said we will do a blood test in two months to make sure it’s not effecting my liver. As someone with fatty liver (unsure if I still have it) and lots of health anxiety around my liver I’m worried.

[jbrking]

Hi I’m 55 and was found to have nafld aged 38. I was put on a statin to help protect me from having issues like a stroke. As I’ve got older I now also take BP meds. I still have a fatty liver as I have metabolic syndrome. I’m ok though. It’s all under control.

[Kettl in reply to jbrking]

Thank you, that is very reassuring.

[Greengal314]

hi Kettl. I have alcohol related liver disease (live in the US) and was recommended to take a statin by my hepatologist. The explanation (and I have read studies as well) is that it is anti fibrotic and reduces the potential for liver cancer. Also supposed to help reduce potential portal hypertension. It isn’t recommended for people with more severe cases of liver disease and should be monitored for a rare chance of toxicity. I have mild cirrhosis.

I hesitantly after much reading and re-evaluation decided to take a very low dose. My liver enzymes went up a little initially(never out of normal range) and then dipped back down. That’s expected - for a temporary slight increase. My bloodwork is all much improved, but it may have had I taken nothing I don’t know

If I had high cholesterol I would be even more ok with taking it.

Nobody has to take anything if they choose not to. You should look into it and make your own decision.

[Kettl in reply to Greengal314]

Thank you so much, that makes me feel better. My cholesterol is only a little up and I am watching my diet again to bring it down. I have a very strong family history of heat disease and am seeing a cardiologist for palpitations so my g.p thought it a good idea. I am a healthy weight and generally eat well.

[Greengal314 in reply to Kettl]

Hi Kettl. that’s good that you’re getting things in order before a problem could occur. My mom is on a statin for cholesterol and she also had fatty liver. She was hospitalized had 3 stents put in several years ago from cholesterol - heart related issues.

She’s 80 now and in great health. I looked at her bloodwork recently and it looks really good (noticeably her liver enzymes to me). So I guess it has helped in her case. She’s taking high levels of the statin.

But this was prescribed due to heart issues.

[Kettl in reply to Greengal314]

Thank you, that’s reassuring. Glad your mum is now doing well.

[Greengal314 in reply to Kettl]

thanks! She’s doing fantastic! She walks about 3 miles every day and exercises at a gym.

[Male47]

Following this. Due to have a cholesterol check