The Silent Threat: High Blood Pressure Hidden Impact on Kidneys

High blood pressure level is a common health issue, but many people do not take their blood pressure control seriously enough. Recent research shows that having high blood pressure not only increases the risk of cardiovascular problems but also raises the risk of end-stage kidney issues. Therefore, controlling blood pressure is one of the key factors in protecting kidney health.

According to the research findings, for every 10 mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure, the risk of brain blood vessel blockage or rupture increases by 53%, the risk of heart blood vessel blockage-related death increases by 31%, and the risk of end-stage kidney problems increases by 11%. This means that high blood pressure level not only damages the cardiovascular system but also has significant implications for the kidneys.

Unfortunately, many patients with high blood pressure level are not aware of the severity. Only 2 out of 10 patients effectively control their blood pressure, while the rest often overlook the seriousness of the problem. They tend to neglect management as long as they feel good and don’t have noticeable symptoms and only regret their negligence when the issues become severe.

The damage caused by high blood pressure level to the kidneys can be severe and silent. Before any apparent symptoms of high blood pressure level arise, the kidneys have already been subjected to long-term harm. This condition can persist for decades without any attention. Typically, blood flows smoothly through the blood vessels, delivering sufficient oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues. However, under high blood pressure levels, blood flow becomes turbulent, and the blood vessel walls suffer from prolonged impact and damage. The blood vessel walls become fragile and prone to blockage, which can lead to severe consequences.

The kidneys are particularly complex organs composed of millions of nephrons. These nephrons are vulnerable to the impact of high blood pressure levels. However, the kidneys also have a substantial reserve capacity, meaning that even if some nephrons are damaged, the remaining nephrons can compensate for the functional loss. This explains why patients with early-stage high blood pressure levels do not easily perceive signs of kidney damage. However, these damaged renal blood vessels are subjected to long-term high-pressure impact, resulting in structural changes and declining kidney function. When kidney function is severely impaired, it enters the end-stage phase. At this stage, the kidneys cannot function properly and require treatments such as dialysis or kidney transplantation to sustain life.

To protect kidney health, we should prioritize blood pressure control. Here are some methods that can help manage blood pressure:

1. Dietary control

Choose a low-sodium, low-fat diet and increase the intake of nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Also, the consumption of alcohol and caffeine should be limited.

2. Moderate exercise

Engage in moderate aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, which can help lower blood pressure levels and promote cardiovascular health.

3. Stress reduction and relaxation

Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, which can help alleviate the impact of stress on blood pressure.

4. Regular check-ups

Measuring blood pressure regularly, and if a high blood pressure level is detected, seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor’s instructions for treatment. If there is prescribed medication, take it as directed. Do not discontinue or alter the dosage without medical guidance.