The Link Between High Blood Pressure and Kidney Health in Seniors
Home Care in Monroe NJ
Most people know that high blood pressure is a serious health issue, but they may not realize that high blood pressure can lead to bigger issues. There’s a significant link between high blood pressure and kidney damage, which can lead to kidney failure. Putting a plan in place, along with support from home care providers, can help seniors to reduce their risk factors for both health issues.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in seniors that can have serious health consequences if left untreated. One of the most serious consequences is damage to the blood vessels throughout the body. Some of the most delicate blood vessels are in the kidneys. Damage to these blood vessels can lead to chronic kidney disease. It is important for seniors to understand the link between high blood pressure and kidney health, and what steps they can take to prevent and treat this condition.
How High Blood Pressure Affects Kidney Health
High blood pressure affects how blood vessels function and causes significant damage. The damage is caused by the increased pressure of the blood against the walls of the blood vessels, which can cause them to narrow or become blocked. That pressure also affects the blood vessels in the kidneys, which makes the kidneys malfunction. This can lead to decreased kidney function, causing a range of symptoms including fatigue, swelling, and nausea. Eventually, the kidneys may fail completely, necessitating dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure in Seniors
Reducing the risk of kidney damage due to high blood pressure means getting blood pressure under control. There are lots of different risk factors for high blood pressure. Some are hereditary, but others are related to factors like diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and other health issues, like diabetes. Paying attention to these risk factors and keeping blood pressure under control helps to reduce the impact of high blood pressure all throughout the body.
Prevention and Treatment
If seniors have hereditary factors pointing toward high blood pressure, their doctors are likely to recommend preventative treatments. Lifestyle changes are usually the first line of defense, but if the blood pressure levels are high enough, medication is likely to be prescribed. It’s also helpful for seniors to learn how to test their blood pressure themselves so that they’re able to keep track of how well the medications are working.
Lifestyle Changes that Can Make a Difference
Lifestyle changes are a lot easier with help. Home care providers can help with meal preparation and assisting seniors with routine changes that support a healthy lifestyle. Elder care providers can also remind seniors to test their blood pressure regularly and get plenty of rest. Seniors who smoke may want to look for ways to quit, which can improve all sorts of health issues, including high blood pressure.
When blood pressure levels are too high for too long, there are long-term consequences. Seniors who already know that they’re at high risk of developing high blood pressure can take steps now to avoid kidney issues later. Home care providers can do a lot to make focusing on better health easier for aging adults.
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Monroe, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care today. Call (732) 607-8870.
The Care Street mission is straightforward and compelling: to provide a comprehensive range of the highest quality home health services in a professional and efficient manner that will enhance our clients' quality of life and empower families to keep their loved one at home.
Care Street has earned a reputation of excellence among hundreds of families, and is recommended by medical professionals and hospital discharge planners throughout the State.
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