Hypertension, better known as high blood pressure, is a serious problem that affects almost half of adults in the US. Left untreated, it can severely impact kidney function over time. Dr. Kanu and his patient-centered team at Texas Kidney Partners emphasize the importance of keeping your blood pressure in check to safeguard your kidney health and enhance your quality of life. We will work closely with you to manage your hypertension and ensure your kidneys continue functioning at their best for as long as possible.
What Is Hypertension?
Hypertension is a condition characterized by consistently high force of blood against the walls of your blood vessels, meaning your heart has to work harder to pump blood. Readings between 120-139/80-89 mm Hg are classified as elevated blood pressure, which can usually be managed with lifestyle changes. Readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher, on the other hand, are considered hypertension, requiring medical management and care to prevent serious impacts on your kidneys and overall well-being.
How Does Hypertension Impact Your Kidney Health?
Your kidneys are vital organs that help keep your body healthy by filtering excess fluids and toxins from your blood and into the urine. Over time, the increased pressure caused by hypertension can seriously damage the blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the kidneys. It can also lead to narrowed arteries and reduced blood flow.
Untreated hypertension can impair the kidneys’ ability to filter blood effectively. Fluid buildup can result in higher blood pressure, which in turn causes added stress on the kidneys, creating a damaging cycle that can impact your health and quality of life. Hypertension continues to be one of the primary causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and even kidney failure.
What Are Common Signs of Hypertension?
- Moderate to severe headaches
- Vision problems
- Fatigue or confusion
- Nosebleeds
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Buzzing in the ears
Hypertension, also known as the “silent killer,” typically shows no symptoms until significant kidney damage has occurred. This is why we recommend regular blood pressure checks, especially if you have risk factors for hypertension, including family history, an unhealthy diet, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, stress, tobacco use, or excessive alcohol consumption. As the condition progresses, it may produce symptoms, including the following:
What Are Lifestyle Changes You Can Make to Manage Hypertension?
There are lifestyle changes you can make to help manage your hypertension, including the following:
- Monitoring your sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein intake
- Consuming a healthy, nutritious diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables
- Exercising regularly – even a daily brisk walk can significantly improve your health
- Refraining from smoking or using tobacco products
- Limiting foods high in saturated fats and steering clear from trans fats
- Limiting your alcohol consumption
- Achieving a healthy weight
- Seeing your primary care physician regularly to monitor your blood pressure
How Is Hypertension Treated?
Controlling your blood pressure may require medical treatment. Dr. Kanu may prescribe diuretics to help remove excess fluids, ACE inhibitors or ARBs to reduce the hormone that narrows your blood vessels, and calcium channel blockers to relax your blood vessels and make it easier for your blood to flow. He may also prescribe beta blockers, which help reduce the workload on your heart and open your blood vessels, helping your heart beat slower and with less force. Dr. Kanu will monitor your blood pressure and make adjustments in your treatment plan, as needed, to minimize the impacts of hypertension on your kidneys and your overall health.
Comprehensive Kidney Care Near Me in McKinney, TX
If you have any risk factors for hypertension or if you experience warning symptoms, Dr. Kanu and his team at Texas Kidney Partners are here to help. We are committed to providing you with personalized care to keep your kidneys functioning at their best. You can count on us for exceptional care tailored to your unique needs. Contact us at 469-613-2343 to schedule a consultation, or complete our online form to request an appointment today!