Which condition is a common cause of secondary hypertension?

Chronic kidney disease is a well-recognized cause of secondary hypertension due to the kidneys' critical role in regulating blood pressure. When kidney function declines, it can lead to an imbalance in fluid and electrolytes, often resulting in increased blood volume, which subsequently raises blood pressure. Additionally, renal impairment can activate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, further contributing to hypertension. This relationship is why healthcare providers routinely evaluate kidney function in patients with hypertension that is resistant to standard treatment, as managing the underlying renal condition can often lead to improved blood pressure control.

Other potential causes of secondary hypertension, such as obstructive sleep apnea and certain lifestyle factors, can indeed affect blood pressure, but they are not as directly linked to the physiological mechanisms that lead to systemic hypertension as chronic kidney disease is.