According to the American Heart Association, nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure. Moreover, high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a bi-directional relationship. Learn what that means, and how high blood pressure is managed.* 

Why is high blood pressure linked to CKD?

It is common to see people have both CKD and high blood pressure. In many cases, it is hard to tell which came first. 

High blood pressure increases the risk for CKD, puts pressure on the kidney, and leads to kidney damage over time. On the other hand, the kidneys help maintain blood pressure by regulating fluid balance and hormones. Damaged kidneys are less able to help manage blood pressure, which can result in hypertension. It is a vicious cycle, and once you have CKD, it can be much harder to manage high blood pressure. 

Are there symptoms?

Unfortunately, high blood pressure and kidney disease are “silent diseases.” Symptoms often do not arise until the conditions are very far along. Some of the symptoms that do arise can be vague and may include:

• Headaches
• A feeling of thumping in the head
• Poor concentration 
• Feeling tired

If you have a family history of CKD or you have diabetes, heart disease, excess abdominal fat, a history of smoking, or high blood pressure, it is important to be screened for CKD at least every one to two years. 

What are the treatments?

There are a number of medications that can help to reduce blood pressure, however, there are just a couple of options designed to protect your kidneys. They include:

• Renin-angiotension system blockades (RAS blockade)
• SGLT2 inhibitors 
• Finerenone, a non-steroidal MRA 

Your doctor can determine the best medication(s) for you to help manage your conditions.

How can I reduce my risk?

Certain lifestyle factors can significantly reduce your risk of developing or worsening CKD and high blood pressure. These include:

• Quitting smoking
• Eating a nutrient-dense diet with fresh whole foods and limit ultra-processed foods and sugar
• Getting adequate sleep
• Managing your stress
• Maintaining an active lifestyle 

If you or a loved one are at risk, make an appointment with your doctor for screening and evaluation. 

*Dwyer, K. (n.d.). Tina Turner had a history of high blood pressure and kidney disease. Here’s how one leads to the other. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/tina-turner-had-a-history-of-high-blood-pressure-and-kidney-disease-heres-how-one-leads-to-the-other-206392