We now know that even mild hypertension, 130+, over several years can damage kidneys,
50% of adults have high blood pressure.
75%+ of those don't have it controlled.
1 in 5 with hypertension will develop chronic kidney disease, which has no symptoms in its early stages.
The latest guidelines from cardiology associations in the US and Europe now advise beginning treatment as soon as systolic rises above 120, to minimize the risk of organ damage.
If medication is required to reach ideal BP, with modern meds, for most people, it's not difficult to find a combination and dose with excellent long term safety profiles and often no side effects, frequently in a single pill taken once a day.
Unfortunately, many primary care providers don't seem well versed in hypertension care, don't keep up with the current best practices, and aren't putting in the effort that would best serve patient's long term health.
www.kidney.org