Uncontrolled high blood pressure

High blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to work properly. When the force of blood flow is high, blood vessels stretch so blood flows more easily. Eventually, this stretching scars and weakens blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the kidneys.

If the kidneys’ blood vessels are damaged, they may stop removing wastes and extra fluid from the body. Extra fluid in the blood vessels may then raise blood pressure even more, creating a dangerous cycle

High blood pressure is the second leading cause of kidney failure in the United States after diabetes. In addition, the rate of kidney failure due to high blood pressure increased 7.7 percent from 2000 to 2010.

Chronic diabetes

High blood glucose, also called blood sugar, can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys. When the blood vessels are damaged, they don’t work as well. Many people with diabetes also develop high blood pressure, which can also damage yourkidneys. Learn more about high blood pressure and kidney disease.

Obesity

In individuals affected by obesity, the kidneys have to work harder, filtering more blood than normal (hyperfiltration) to meet the metabolic demands (the process by which your body converts what you eat and drink into energy) of the increased body weight. The increase in function can damage the kidney and raise the risk of developing CKD in the long-term.

Inflammation of the kidneys (nephritis)

Nephritis is the inflammation of the kidneys. It has a range of causes and can be acute or chronic. Early symptoms may include changes in the color of the urine and swelling of the hands and feet.

Anyone who notices changes in their urine should visit a doctor to check for kidney damage. Without treatment, this can lead to kidney failure.

Prostate disease (or other disorders that block the flow of urine)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia often leads to bladder, kidney, and urinary tract disorders. The prostate enlargement may block the flow of urine and cause discomfort or urinary retention. Common symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia include weak urine flow or a stream of urine that starts and stops.

Hereditary kidney disorders and congenital disorders
(malfunction of urinary tract)

The most prevalent hereditary kidney condition is called polycystic kidney disease. Congenital disorders usually involve a malformation or obstruction in the urinary tract that can produce an infection or otherwise cause destruction of the kidney tissue, leading to chronic kidney failure.

NSAIDs

People with chronic kidney disease are generally advised not to take NSAIDs, with the exception of aspirin (for cardiovascular indications). NSAIDs have been associated with acute kidney injury in the general population and with progression of disease in those with chronic kidney disease.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a specific group of pain relievers. Some NSAIDs are available over the counter. This includes different brands of ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and ketoprofen.

Many analgesics should not be used if there is decreased kidney function, because they reduce the blood flow to the kidney. Also, long term use with higher doses may harm normal kidneys.

If you have kidney disease, consult your doctor before taking an analgesic, particularly NSAIDs and higher dose aspirin.