What direct effect may result from uncontrolled hypertension?

Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to renal dysfunction due to the damage it inflicts on blood vessels, particularly those that supply the kidneys. High blood pressure places excessive strain on the delicate capillaries within the kidney, which can lead to impaired renal blood flow. Over time, this can cause a reduction in the kidneys' ability to filter waste products from the blood effectively, ultimately resulting in conditions such as chronic kidney disease or acute renal failure. The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining homeostasis, and any impairment in their function can exacerbate hypertension, creating a vicious cycle of worsening blood pressure and declining renal function. This relationship underscores the importance of managing hypertension to protect renal health.