Hypertension and kidney disease
The early detection of kidney damage from hypertension is very important. Your doctor can order blood tests that can determine whether or not there is evidence of damage. Blood pressure should be controlled to levels of 130/85 mm Hg or lower. The goal here is to prevent advanced or “end-stage” kidney failure requiring the need for dialysis.Evaluation and diagnosis
The initial screening for hypertension is fairly simple and straightforward. All you need to do is have your blood pressure measured with a cuff that is placed around your arm and then inflated (technically it is called a sphygmomanometer). As a basic rule, if the average of three blood pressure readings (on different days) is over 140/90 mm Hg it can be concluded that you have hypertension. The exact cause of hypertension in most cases is not known. In the medical community this is referred to as “essential” hypertension. A combination of genetics, diet, and lifestyle certainly play a large role in the development of high blood pressure. It is very important to point out that if you develop hypertension at a young age or the hypertension develops suddenly, your doctor should carefully evaluate you for causes of hypertension that are potentially reversible. You may need special studies that will evaluate the vessels that supply blood to your kidneys and for other potential disorders in your endocrine system.Lifestyle changes
For most individuals, the first step in treating hypertension is to make lifestyle changes. This means losing weight, increasing the amount of exercise you get, and changing your diet. In general, decreasing the sodium (salt) in your diet, eating more fruits and vegetables, and getting more aerobic exercise can help to lower your blood pressure. It will take some effort on your part!Anti-hypertensive medications
If the lifestyle changes mentioned above are unable to control your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication(s). There are a variety of different medications available and your doctor will prescribe the medication that is best for you. Some medications are better for people with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, etc. If you cannot tolerate a certain medication because of adverse side effects, there are other options. Many people are often opposed to “taking a pill every day.” Please, please, please remember that taking a pill every day can be a much better option than developing a stroke, heart attack, or needing to have kidney dialysis because your blood pressure ran out of control for too long.(published with permission in writing from:http://www.blackwomenshealth.com/)
