What is the primary cause of "hardening of the kidneys" in a patient with CKD?

Prolonged, severe hypertension is a significant factor in causing "hardening of the kidneys," or nephrosclerosis, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). High blood pressure puts unnecessary strain on the delicate structures of the kidneys, leading to damage over time. This damage results in the scarring and stiffening of the renal tissues, which can progressively impair kidney function.

Hypertension is often related to other comorbidities, including diabetes, which further contributes to kidney damage. As the kidney's filtering units (nephrons) become hardened and unable to function effectively, the overall ability of the kidneys to filter waste from the blood diminishes, worsening the condition of CKD. Addressing hypertension is therefore critical in managing patients with CKD to prevent further renal complications.

In contrast, while a high-fat diet, frequent consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks, and high calcium intake can contribute to various health issues, they are not directly linked to the primary mechanism of kidney "hardening" in the context of chronic kidney disease.