Understand the interplay between chronic kidney disease and hypertension with insights from Meri Sehat's medical experts.

Does Chronic Kidney Disease Cause Hypertension?

How can the kidneys – organs responsible for filtering out and removing waste and excess fluid from your blood through the urine – be causing high blood pressure?

Introduction

Did you know that more than 50% of patients with chronic kidney disease also have high blood pressure?<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>

It is possible if you have chronic kidney disease (CKD). The damage to the kidneys leads to a build-up of harmful substances in your body that, in turn, triggers an increase in your blood pressure. It also increases the likelihood of the worsening of CKD. This type of <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/hypertension-57">hypertension</a> is called renal hypertension. 
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Understanding the impact of CKD on hypertension

One of the key players causing this complication is a hormone called renin. When the kidneys sense a drop in blood flow or filtration, they release renin into the bloodstream. Renin then kicks off a series of events that result in the narrowing of blood vessels and an increase in blood pressure. If you have CKD, this process can become dysregulated, further contributing to hypertension. 
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Your doctor may order imaging tests, such as duplex ultrasound, computerized tomographic angiography, catheter angiogram, or magnetic resonance angiogram, to determine if the CKD has caused narrowing of your renal arteries.

However, a narrowed kidney artery alone is not responsible for your hypertension. Some patients can also present with essential hypertension.<a href="#accordion">[3]</a> 
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If you have chronic kidney disease, it&#39;s crucial to work closely with your healthcare team to manage hypertension effectively.

<ul>
	<li>Your doctor may prescribe medications, including ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, diuretics, or water pills.</li>
	<li>Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a kidney-friendly and heart-friendly diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying physically active, can all make a significant difference.</li>
	<li>Avoid self medicating &nbsp;and long-term exposure to heavy metals like lead to prevent kidney disease.</li>
	<li>Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function is essential, allowing for timely detection and intervention.</li>
</ul>

Other procedures, including angioplasty, renal bypass surgery, or kidney transplant, are reserved for severe cases only. For instance, you may have pulmonary edema, rapidly worsening kidney function, or experience unacceptable side effects from blood pressure medications.&nbsp;

Note: Left untreated, renal hypertension causes end-stage renal disease or kidney failure. Do not ignore it. Seek professional help immediately! 
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Conclusion

Understanding the connection between hypertension and CKD is the first step towards effective management of the conditions. A holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes and regular medical check-ups can help improve your overall well-being. 
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Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>Kidneys play a key role in keeping blood pressure in a healthy range.</li>
	<li>Diseased kidneys cannot regulate blood pressure. As a result, blood pressure increases.</li>
	<li>If you have CKD, high blood pressure makes it more likely that your kidney disease will get worse and you will have heart problems.</li>
	<li>It is important to follow your treatment plan and keep your blood pressure under control to avoid complications.</li>
</ul>