We often think of the kidneys and heart as separate organs doing separate jobs. But in truth, they’re deeply connected. When the kidneys begin to struggle, the heart often follows. That’s why at OneMedicine, we take chronic kidney disease (CKD) seriously—not just as a kidney issue, but as a significant cardiovascular risk.
Let’s take a closer look at how it works—and how we can help.
What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose function. Their main job is to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. When they’re damaged, waste builds up, blood pressure rises, and the balance of minerals and hormones gets disrupted.
CKD often develops silently, with few symptoms in the early stages. The most common causes are high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic inflammation in the kidneys.
At OneMedicine, we regularly check kidney health in patients with known risk factors—even if they feel well.
The Kidney–Heart Connection
The link between CKD and heart disease is powerful—and well documented.
✔High Blood Pressure – Damaged kidneys struggle to control blood pressure, putting more strain on the heart.
✔Fluid Overload – When kidneys can’t get rid of fluid properly, it builds up in the body, increasing the risk of heart failure.
✔ Anaemia – Failing kidneys produce less erythropoietin, which leads to anaemia. This makes the heart work harder.
✔ Calcium and Phosphate Imbalance – This can lead to calcified arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
✔ Inflammation and Toxins – CKD increases inflammation and circulating toxins, which damage blood vessels and raise cardiovascular risk.
How Common Is Heart Disease in CKD?
People with CKD are up to 10 times more likely to die from heart disease than from kidney failure itself. In fact, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people with kidney disease—even in early stages.
That’s why we take an integrated approach at OneMedicine—screening both kidney and heart health together.
What You Can Do
The good news? With the right support, much of this risk can be reduced.
✔ Control Blood Pressure and Diabetes – We help you monitor and manage these over time.
✔ Get Checked – A simple blood and urine test at OneMedicine can assess your kidney function and cardiovascular risk.
✔ Adopt a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle – We offer personalised advice on diet, exercise, weight, and smoking cessation.
✔ Stay Proactive – Regular check-ups with your OneMedicine GP give you early insight and personalised care.
How We Can Help at OneMedicine
Our private GP service is designed to give you the time and attention needed to detect and manage chronic conditions before they become serious. If you’re living with high blood pressure, diabetes, or have a family history of kidney or heart problems, we recommend a full cardiovascular and kidney health check-up.
You’ll get:
- Tailored blood and urine testing
- ECG and blood pressure monitoring
- Personalised advice from your OneMedicine GP
- Ongoing care with continuity and support
Final Thoughts
At OneMedicine, our focus is prevention. Chronic kidney disease doesn’t have to lead to heart disease – but it often does when left unchecked. We’re here to catch it early, treat it properly, and help you stay in control of your health.
Ready to get checked?
Book a chat with a Doctor today.
