Kidney Failure
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Leading Cause – Hypertension
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is the second leading cause of kidney failure in Singapore. It is often called the ‘silent killer’, because it does not always produce symptoms. 1 in 3 Singaporean adults have hypertension (high blood pressure).
Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood on the blood vessels and the heart. It has two components:
Blood pressure is the force of the blood as it flows through the blood vessels and the heart. Hypertension or high blood pressure is defined as blood pressure consistently exceeding 140/90mmHg when the person is at rest. Factors that can cause high blood pressure are having extra fluid in the blood and blood vessels that are narrow, stiff, or clogged.
High blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to work properly. They may then be unable to remove waste and extra fluid from the body. Extra fluid in the blood vessels may further increase blood pressure even more, creating a vicious cycle that could damage the kidneys.
Signs & Symptoms
Persistent headaches
Blurred or double vision
Nosebleeds
Shortness of breath
Uncontrolled high blood pressure may lead to other serious complications like heart attack, stroke, and blindness as well.
How does uncontrolled hypertension affect my kidneys?
Uncontrolled hypertension damages and weakens the
blood vessel walls in the kidneysThe damaged blood vessels are not able to receive the
oxygen and nutrients they need to function wellKidneys lose their ability to filter blood and regulate the fluid, hormones, acids and salts in the body
Extra fluid and toxic wastes accumulated in the body may
increase the blood pressure even more, creating a
dangerous cycle
What to look out for?
Hypertension or high blood pressure (HBP) is defined as a blood pressure consistently exceeding 140/90mmHg when resting.
Categories for blood pressure levels in adults (Aged 18 years and older)
| Category | Systolic BP Level (mmHg) | Diastolic BP Level (mmHg) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal Blood Pressure | Less than 120 | and | Less than 80 |
| High-Normal Blood Pressure | 130 — 139 | or | 85 — 89 |
| High Blood Pressure | |||
| Grade 1 Hypertension | 140 — 159 | or | 90 — 99 |
| Grade 2 Hypertension | Greater than or equal to 160 | or | Greater than or equal to 100 |
| * Isolated Systolic Hypertension | More than 140 | and | Less than 90 |
(HPB, 2025)
Controlling blood pressure is a lifelong commitment. Hypertension is reversible with lifestyle changes!
Dietary modifications, including salt and alcohol restriction, as well as weight reduction, have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of Hypertension.
Learn more on how to monitor and manage your blood pressure.
