Hypertension, or high blood pressure, negatively impacts our health, including kidney health.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney failure, and impaired kidney function can also lead to higher blood pressure levels.
High blood pressure, if left untreated or uncontrolled over time, can damage the blood vessels in our kidneys. When this happens, the kidneys do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients needed for proper functioning.
Additionally, high blood pressure can cause scarring of kidney tissue, a condition known as hypertensive arteriolar nephrosclerosis. This scarring impairs our kidneys’ ability to filter blood and regulate fluids.
When kidneys are damaged, they cannot filter blood effectively and struggle to remove waste and excess fluid from the body. This retention of fluids, salt, and toxins can further elevate blood pressure.
To significantly reduce the risk of these complications and others associated with high blood pressure, it is important to manage our health effectively. This can be achieved by:
- Taking medications as prescribed
- Limiting our sodium intake
- Eating a healthy diet
- Having regular blood pressure screenings
- Drinking less alcohol
- Exercising
- Quitting smoking or using tobacco
- Controlling cholesterol
Working with your doctor to control your blood pressure can help you minimize your risk of kidney damage and other health problems. To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.
FollowAll content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.