Managing Hypertension Kidney Disease
The blood circulation system and kidneys are dependent on each other to remain in good health. The kidneys are unable to function properly when the blood pressure remains high. High blood pressure or hypertension is a common reason for kidney failure – arteries connected to the kidneys become hard, weak, or narrow due to HBP.
In such a condition, the kidneys cannot receive sufficient amounts of nutrients and oxygen through the blood supply. Hypertension kidney disease affects the kidneys’ filtering function and capacity, creating a dangerous cycle where increased blood pressure damages the kidneys while the damaged kidneys worsen HBP condition as they cannot remove excess fluid from the blood.
The Functions of the Kidneys
The kidneys are two bean-shaped fist-size organs located on each side of the spine below the rib cage. Healthy kidneys process the blood to remove waste and extra water and get them out in the form of urine.
Some of the kidney functions include:
- Controlling electrolyte balance
- Maintaining water balance
- Maintaining acid-base balance
- Removing wastes and toxins from the body
- Producing erythropoietin hormone
- Activating vitamin D
- Controlling blood pressure
How Do Kidneys Control Blood Pressure?
The kidneys produce the renin enzyme that converts liver-secreted α2-globulin into angiotensin I hormone, which then converts into angiotensin II in the lungs. Angiotensin II narrows the blood vessels, leading to an increase in blood pressure.
If the blood pressure remains high for an extended period of time, the kidneys try to bring it down by removing liquid from the blood. It results in more production of urine. The body starts retaining more fluid if the blood system’s angiotensin hormone becomes too high; it increases blood pressure which is a problem not only in itself but also because it causes other health problems like heart failure.
The production of angiotensin also causes the growth of the heart. To control its excess production, doctors prescribe angiotensin enzyme inhibitors and receptor blockers.
Symptoms of Hypertension Kidney Disease
- Edema – is a type of swelling seen mostly in the legs, feet, and ankles, but it can also occur in the face or hands. It occurs when damaged kidneys cannot remove excess salt and fluid in the body.
- High blood pressure – occurs when kidneys are unable to function properly, leading to more fluid retention in the body. This creates a cycle where high blood pressure damages the kidneys, and damaged kidneys worsen HBP.
- Increased urination – can indicate kidney disease development.
- Sleeping issues – chronic kidney disease can cause sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.
- Dry, darkened, or itchy skin – these problems arise because the damaged kidneys fail to remove toxins. Skin discoloration occurs due to a lack of nutrients and minerals in the blood.
- Chest pain – as kidneys fail to perform their functions, it gives rise to excess bodily fluids, making it hard for the lungs to function properly. Difficulty in breathing leads to chest pain.
- Muscle cramps – damaged kidneys create an imbalance in electrolytes and fluid, causing muscle cramps. This problem can be seen in people with hypertension kidney disease.
Health Issues Caused by HBP
People with HBP are at higher risk of stroke and heart disease. Individuals with initial stages of hypertension do not experience or see any symptoms of it, leading to its silent progression. Blood pressure can increase in those who are unable to maintain a healthy lifestyle, who have diabetes, or who are overweight.
High blood pressure occurs during some stages of pregnancy as well. Other health problems can arise because hypertension goes unnoticed. When the blood cannot transport nutrients and oxygen to the body’s organs, it creates many health problems: the stroke risk increases when arteries cannot supply blood to the brain normally. Some studies have linked dementia and cognitive decline to hypertension.
High Risk of Hypertension Kidney Disease
Hypertension increases the risk of developing kidney disease, and, at the same time, this disease can happen due to many other factors. When doctors suspect some health symptoms are related to this disease, they suggest blood and urine tests.
It is important to note that reversing kidney damage may not be possible. However, there are certain measures that can help you slow the progression of this damage and make the health condition manageable. One of these options is to lower blood pressure and prevent it from increasing in the future. Effective management of blood pressure can be helpful in reducing the risk of further progression of kidney disease.
Dr. Shimon Storch, with 40 years of experience in nephrology and hypertension, can help you in various ways. He has the expertise and authority to suggest appropriate solutions that will help you manage your hypertension kidney disease issues. Book your consultation here to receive expert guidance in this matter.
