What is a common complication of poorly managed hypertension?

The common complication of poorly managed hypertension that stands out is chronic kidney disease. Hypertension exerts high pressure on the renal blood vessels over time, which can lead to damage of the kidneys' filtration units and contribute to a decline in their function. As the kidneys become compromised, they struggle to remove waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, ultimately leading to chronic kidney disease.

In addition to chronic kidney disease, poorly controlled hypertension is also strongly associated with other serious complications such as cerebrovascular accidents (strokes) and heart failure. While diabetes mellitus is a condition that can result from a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition and lifestyle choices, it is not a direct complication of hypertension like the other options. Understanding the connections between hypertension and renal health is crucial for managing and mitigating the risks associated with elevated blood pressure.