If you’re scared by statin side-effects, this is what you need to know, says DR SCURR. A reader’s letter spoke about supplements he’s taking spoke volumes… but there IS an answer

I get headaches and feel dizzy when using my mobile but when it’s switched off, I’m fine. I think I have electrohypersensitivity. Is there anything I can do?

S.Hill Church, London.

Dr Martin Scurr replies: There is no doubt your symptoms are genuine. Nevertheless, I agree the World Health Organisation that there is little scientific evidence for electrohypersensitivity.

Indeed, trials in which some people have been deliberately exposed to radiofrequency radiation (the type of energy emitted by mobile phone), while others have been exposed to sham, have not convincingly shown that the former suffer more symptoms.

Studies have also found that people who believe they’re electrohypersensitive are unable to consistently detect when they’re exposed to radiofrequency radiation (these studies have been ‘blinded’, which means the participants are unaware if they are actually being exposed to the stimulus or not).

But as your symptoms are so specific, you’re best advised to avoid all exposure that might create symptoms, even if this is not currently backed by science, including Bluetooth transmissions from laptops and wi-fi routers. Perhaps cut out one device at a time, then use it again to be certain that it is indeed the offending item.

Hopefully your quality of life can only improve.

I’ve been taking omega-3 and collagen for high cholesterol, as the package information sheet for the statins I was prescribed warned about side-effects and said patients should be put on a low-cholesterol diet. 

My doctor wouldn’t give advice on this, so I refused the medication. 

Another GP said these information sheets were just a cover-all insurance for the drug companies. So I took the statins for five nights and had pains all down one side.

Marion Tunnicliffe, Southport. 

Dr Martin Scurr replies: As you’ve clearly recognised, you need to tackle your raised cholesterol level. In your longer letter, you mention having atrial fibrillation (a heart rhythm condition) and a pacemaker, which show you have significant heart disease.

Raised cholesterol is a significant risk for a heart attack or stroke, which is why we prescribe statins alongside dietary changes.

A low-cholesterol diet, put simply, involves reducing, so far as is possible, animal fat.

For the most part, this means red meat and full-fat dairy, including cheese. At the same time you need to increase your soluble fibre intake – such as oats and beans – which help reduce cholesterol absorption.

You will find clear, simple dietary guidance on the internet.

Statins are a vital treatment: Patients who are prescribed a statin following a diagnosis of heart disease live longer.

You also asked about how important drug information leaflets are – these have been legally required since the 1990s, and are designed to give clear instructions on how to take the medicine and what side-effects to look out for.

Bear in mind that the information has to take account of all possibilities in all people – and some may be quite rare but nevertheless quite frightening. Yes, the leaflet covers the manufacturer legally – this is why so much detail is included.

Think of it like this: If a user information leaflet was provided with every new car there would have to be a statement that people in cars get killed by the use of the machine. That would not stop us from travelling in cars: we take a decision balancing the benefits against the risks. 

The same applies with medication. What’s clearly been missing here is someone taking the time to discuss this all with you (in your letter you mention only getting to see a GP for five minutes). I would ask for another appointment