High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major public health concern in India, with its prevalence steadily increasing over the years. Current estimates suggest that about 30% to 40% of adults in urban areas and approximately 20% to 25% in rural areas are affected by hypertension. Often called the “silent killer” due to its lack of symptoms, hypertension can have profound effects on the body. Secondary hypertension, which results from an identifiable underlying condition or disease, is most commonly caused by kidney disease. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. V. Vaishnavi, a Consultant Nephrologist at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology in Hyderabad, discussed how high blood pressure affects the kidneys.
According to Dr. Vaishnavi, the kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and excess fluid from the bloodstream. They secrete a hormone called renin, which helps regulate blood pressure. Hypertension is often one of the first signs of underlying kidney disease. Sustained high blood pressure can damage the intricate network of blood vessels within the kidneys, causing them to thicken and narrow. This reduces blood flow and impairs the kidneys’ ability to function optimally. One key component of kidney function is the glomeruli, tiny filtering units that remove waste from the blood.
High blood pressure can lead to glomerular damage, resulting in protein leakage into the urine—a condition known as proteinuria. This is a significant indicator of kidney damage and can signal progression toward irreversible kidney damage. As kidney function declines, the body’s ability to regulate fluid and electrolytes diminishes, leading to fluid retention, swelling, and further increases in blood pressure. The relationship between hypertension and kidney disease is cyclical: as kidney function worsens, blood pressure may rise, creating a challenging feedback loop. Uncontrolled hypertension can accelerate the progression of existing kidney disease, heightening the risk of kidney failure. At this stage, patients may require dialysis or a kidney transplant, highlighting the importance of early intervention and management, Dr. Vaishnavi added.
Finally, Dr. Vaishnavi emphasized that preventing high blood pressure is crucial for maintaining kidney health. Lifestyle modifications, such as a balanced diet low in sodium, regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes a day), maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and moderating alcohol intake, can significantly lower blood pressure. Additionally, regular monitoring and medication may be necessary for those with hypertension.
