Blood Pressure and Your Kidneys
The two-way link between high blood pressure and kidney damage, and how control protects your kidneys.
Last updated: 2026-09-24
High blood pressure is both a cause and a result of kidney disease. High pressure damages your kidney’s small vessels, while damaged kidneys make pressure harder to control.
Your target
For most people with kidney disease, the aim is below 130/80 mmHg. Your doctor sets your own target.
What helps
- Blood-pressure medicines, often ACE inhibitors or ARBs
- Less salt
- Regular activity and a healthy weight
- Home blood-pressure checks
Frequently asked questions
Which medicines protect the kidneys?
ACE inhibitors and ARBs reduce pressure inside the kidney filters and slow protein leak.
Can lowering blood pressure improve kidney function?
It can slow further loss, though it cannot repair scarred tissue.