Kidney health might not be the first thing to come to mind when you think about managing blood pressure, but these two facets of our physiological well-being are deeply intertwined.
Understanding this connection is key to preventing hypertension-related kidney diseases and managing existing conditions effectively.
Let’s explore the connection between blood pressure and kidney health and what actionable steps individuals can take to prioritize kidney health.
The Basics of Blood Pressure and Kidney Health
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by blood against the walls of your arteries as it circulates throughout your body. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is presented as two numbers:
- Systolic pressure: This is the top number and represents the amount of pressure in your arteries during the contraction of your heart muscle.
- Diastolic pressure: This is the bottom number of blood pressure readings and signifies the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats.
Normal blood pressure is typically defined as a reading of less than 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure or hypertension occurs when the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high, often 130/80 mmHg or above.
Kidney Health
The kidneys are vital organs located just below the rib cage. They perform several vital functions, including:
- Filtering waste and excess fluid from your blood, which are excreted as urine.
- Regulating electrolytes in your body, such as sodium and potassium, which helps maintain heart rhythm and muscle function.
- Producing hormones that regulate blood pressure, make red blood cells, and maintain bone health.
These filtering units of the body filter about a half cup of blood every minute, removing waste and extra water to produce urine.
Understanding the Connection
Kidneys and blood pressure are intricately linked. Here is how they impact each other.
Impact of Kidneys on Blood Pressure
The kidneys play a crucial role in controlling blood pressure by managing fluid balance, producing certain hormones, and maintaining healthy blood vessels.
The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is a key component in this process. When blood flow to the kidneys is reduced, they release an enzyme called renin into the bloodstream, which catalyzes the production of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor that helps raise blood pressure by tightening blood vessels.
This effect also triggers the adrenal glands to release aldosterone, which tells the kidneys to retain sodium and water. The result: an increase in blood volume and, consequently, blood pressure.
Impact of High Blood Pressure on the Kidneys
High blood pressure can cause damage by increasing the pressure within the blood vessels of the kidneys. The tiny blood vessels in the kidneys that filter the blood can become narrowed and clogged, impairing their ability to function.
This damage can lead to CKD, a gradual loss of kidney function over time. High blood pressure can also lead to a more severe condition known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), where the kidneys no longer function well enough to maintain health, requiring kidney dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Managing High Blood Pressure for Kidney Health
Fortunately, there are effective ways recommended by nephrologists to manage high blood pressure and, in turn, reduce the risk of kidney damage. Lifestyle interventions such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can all contribute to keeping blood pressure within a healthy range.
In some cases, nephrologists recommend medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) to help control blood pressure and protect the kidneys.
When to See a Nephrologist
A nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating kidney diseases and other related disorders, such as high blood pressure.
If you have persistent high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, or are experiencing symptoms like swelling, fatigue, frequent urination, or blood in your urine, it’s crucial to see the best nephrologist you can find.
They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, help manage your blood pressure, and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. A nephrologist can also guide you through the process of dialysis or a kidney transplant if necessary.
Best Nephrologist Near Me in Syracuse, New York
At the Department of Medicine at SUNY: Upstate Medical University, we have a team of board-certified nephrologists who are committed to offering comprehensive treatment for a full range of diseases affecting kidney health. We also offer comprehensive dialysis programs for patients with chronic kidney failure.
To learn more about our best nephrologists or to schedule a consultation with one of them, call our nephrology providers directly or send us an email at DeptMedicine@upstate.edu for more information.
