Prolonged high blood pressure (hypertension) causes damage to various organs and tissues in the body, one of which is the kidneys. Hypertension can cause damage to the small blood vessels (capillaries) and filters (glomeruli) in the kidneys. This damage in the kidneys leads to a condition called nephrosclerosis which is the hardening and thickening of the blood vessels that supply the nephrons, the functional unit of the kidneys.

When the small blood vessels of the kidneys become damaged, the kidneys cannot filter waste and excess fluid as effectively. This causes waste and fluid to build up in the body and can lead to a condition called chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time and can ultimately lead to kidney failure.

Solutions to hypertension-induced kidney disease include medication to control blood pressure, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, and managing other medical conditions such as diabetes and high cholesterol. Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood and urine tests is also important in detecting and managing kidney damage early on.

In severe cases, the only solution may be a kidney transplant or dialysis, depending on the extent of kidney damage. However, a prevention focus is crucial as hypertension-induced kidney disease is preventable with early detection and proper management of blood pressure.


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