Blood pressure is a measurement that gauges how forcefully blood is flowing through vessels.  A healthy blood pressure reading should have an upper (systolic) number that’s below 120mm Hg and a lower (diastolic) that’s less than 80 mm Hg. If your numbers are higher than this, you have a form of high blood pressure—or hypertension—that could be causing considerable damage to kidneys and other vital organs. To help you protect your body, consider this brief guide on the four stages of hypertension, how they impact the kidneys, and how to treat them.

4 Stages of High Blood Pressure & How They Impact Kidneys

1. Elevated

Sometimes referred to as prehypertension, elevated hypertension occurs when the systolic number ranges between 120 to 129, and the diastolic number is less than 80. While this stage is not likely to cause lasting damage to the kidneys or other organs, it does require action.

At this stage, recommended treatment often involves making lifestyle changes known to help lower blood pressure—such as losing weight, exercising more, reducing sodium intake, and abstaining from cigarettes and alcohol.

2. Stage One

Stage one hypertension occurs when the systolic reading falls between 130 and 139 or when the diastolic number ranges from 80 to 89. Prolonged cases of stage one or stage two hypertension are known to damage blood vessels that serve the kidneys. This damage will prevent the kidneys from removing waste, which results in toxic buildup in the body.

The lifestyle changes mentioned above may be sufficient to improve readings. However, individuals who are at-risk for other conditions—such as those with heart disease or diabetes—may need to take prescription medication to lower blood pressure.

3. Stage Two

The next stage is when the systolic number is higher than 140, or the diastolic number is above 90. In this phase, organ damage progresses to the point where kidneys have trouble producing a hormone known as aldosterone—a problem that will further increase blood pressure. At this stage, doctors typically prescribe medications designed to lower blood pressure levels. Lifestyle changes are also necessary.

4. Hypertensive Crisis

A hypertensive crisis occurs when the systolic reading is higher than 180, or the diastolic is greater than 120. This level of high blood pressure significantly increases the risk of kidney failure, heart attack, stroke, and other life-threatening conditions. If you are in a hypertensive crisis, call 911 or visit an emergency room for immediate medical treatment.

When you have any form of hypertension, taking steps to protect your kidneys is critical. That’s why Mt. Auburn Nephrology offers comprehensive high blood pressure and kidney disease treatment. Supported by experienced specialists, this Cincinnati, OH, nephrology practice can perform kidney function tests to monitor your health risks, introduce you to smart lifestyle strategies, and prescribe advanced medications to protect your body. Visit this practice online to learn more about these options or call (513) 841-0222 to schedule a consultation with a caring nephrologist.