High Blood Pressure & Kidney Disease

by Ruth St. James


Overview

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), almost 30% of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure (hypertension). The CDC also states that, in the United States alone, over three million adults have some form of kidney disease as well.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is the result of too many fluids in the body, which increases the force on the vessel and arterial walls. Symptoms can be vague and include headache, dizziness and blurred vision.

Kidney Disease

Kidneys help process liquid waste and excess water from your body. Chronic kidney disease is when one or both kidneys have suffered a slow and gradual deterioration over time. Symptoms can include fatigue and weakness, frequent urination and headaches.

Contributing Factors

High blood pressure can directly contribute to the onset of kidney disease. Because there is too much fluid in the body, the kidneys have to work harder, which puts a strain on them. If the kidneys don't function correctly, the toxic buildup in your blood can make you very sick.

Treatments

Both conditions can be controlled by reducing the amount of salt in your diet, staying away from caffeine and limiting the amount of soda that you drink. For kidney health, also limit the amount of protein and potassium in your diet.

Long Term Effects

If blood pressure is not controlled, it can cause stroke, heart attack and death. If kidney disease is not managed, it can result in end stage renal failure, and dialysis becomes critical. Dialysis is filtering your blood through a machine because your body no longer can.

Relax

Meditation and self calming exercises like measured breathing have been proven to help lower blood pressure, which in turn can help your kidneys out. Breathe deep.

References & Resources

• Center for Disease Control
• National Kidney Foundation

About the Author

Ruth St. James is a freelance writer as well as a produced playwright and script writer, including a documentary on religion in small societies for Discovery. As the former CFO of a consulting firm, she brings business acumen to the table, as well as expert knowledge in the fields of health and spirituality.

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