Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis

Hypertensive nephrosclerosis is a chronic kidney condition resulting from prolonged, poorly controlled high blood pressure that damages kidney tissues and impairs filtration ability. Persistent hypertension causes thickening and narrowing of small renal arteries and arterioles, reducing blood supply to the nephrons. Over time, this leads to glomerular ischemia, interstitial fibrosis, and tubular atrophy, gradually progressing to chronic kidney disease. Symptoms often appear late, including fatigue, swelling, nausea, loss of appetite, and elevated blood pressure despite medication. Diagnostic evaluation involves assessing kidney function through blood tests, urine analysis for protein and blood, and ultrasound to identify structural shrinkage of the kidneys.

The condition is more common in older adults and individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or coexisting disorders like diabetic nephropathy. Treatment focuses on stringent blood pressure control using ACE inhibitors or ARBs, sodium restriction, and lifestyle modifications to slow progression. Without proper management, hypertensive nephrosclerosis may advance to end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis or transplantation.?