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High Blood Pressure and Kidney Problems

High blood pressure (hypertension) is the excessive force of blood against the walls of the blood vessels. Various factors contribute to the development of hypertension, and the kidneys are a key organ in the control of the problem. High blood pressure, however, can cause the development of kidney disease, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

  1. Blood Pressure Effect On Kidneys

    • Each year more than 25,000 new cases of kidney failure happen in the United States as a result of high blood pressure, according to the NIDDK.
      Having high blood pressure forces the heart to pump harder and this can damage blood vessels throughout the body. The blood vessels that keep the kidneys functional are not immune to this damage and if they become damaged and malfunctioning, it will prevent the kidneys from doing their job. Kidneys filter waste and fluid from the body and when they fail it is necessary to clean the blood regularly through dialysis or else have a transplant.

    Signs of Kidney Disease

    • Much like high blood pressure, you may never know you have a problem with your kidneys until you are tested. Chronic kidney disease is undetectable as it has no symptoms and the person does not feel sick.
      If you suspect you have high blood pressure, then you may want to get checked and also have a glomerular filtration test that will determine the functionality of your kidneys.

    Preventing Damage

    • Lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet and prescription anti-hypertension drugs are the keys to preventing kidney damage due to high blood pressure, according to the NIDDK.
      Maintain a normal weight; eat fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains; and limit sodium intake to 2,000 milligrams per day.
      Get plenty of exercise that includes at least 30 minutes of activity such as walking, bicycling or swimming. Avoid consuming too much alcohol, as this will also increase blood pressure.

    Risk Factors

    • Certain risk groups exist for the development of kidney disease caused by high blood pressure, according to the NIDDK.
      African-Americans are six times more likely to develop hypertension-induced chronic kidney disease than Caucasians. Also, diabetics are at a greater than average risk. African-Americans with diabetes should take special care to avoid hypertension. Early treatment at the first sign of high blood pressure is important for this group.

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