Resistant Hypertension Treatment in Singapore
Dr Alvin Ng
Senior Consultant Nephrologist & Medical Director MBChB (Auckland), FRACP (Aus), FAMS (Renal Medicine)
What Is Resistant Hypertension?
Resistant hypertension refers to high blood pressure that remains uncontrolled despite the use of three or more blood pressure medications. One possible cause is renal artery stenosis, a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys, which can reduce kidney blood flow and eventually cause kidney damage. If left untreated, resistant hypertension and renal artery stenosis can increase the risk of serious complications such as kidney failure, stroke, heart attack and heart failure.
What Are the Symptoms of Resistant Hypertension?
Resistant hypertension often does not cause noticeable symptoms and may only be detected during blood pressure checks. However, if blood pressure becomes extremely high, symptoms may include:
Headache Breathlessness Chest pain 
What Are the Risk Factors of Resistant Hypertension?
Resistant hypertension often does not cause noticeable symptoms and may only be detected during blood pressure checks. However, if blood pressure becomes extremely high, symptoms may include:
Smoking Lack of physical activity High-salt diet Excessive alcohol consumption Family history of high blood pressure Sleep apnoea Chronic kidney disease Adrenal or thyroid disorders Renal artery stenosis, or narrowing of the arteries leading to the kidneys 
What Are the Treatment Options for Resistant Hypertension?
Managing resistant hypertension starts with identifying why blood pressure remains difficult to control.
Further investigations
Additional tests such as kidney health checks and imaging scans may be recommended to identify possible causes of resistant hypertension and assess the blood vessels leading to the kidneys.
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle modifications such as reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking can help improve blood pressure control.
Medication adjustments
Blood pressure medications may also need to be adjusted or personalised. This includes ensuring that the medications are taken correctly, reviewing possible side effects, and choosing treatment options that are better tolerated.
Surgical intervention
In selected cases where the kidney arteries are significantly narrowed or blocked, a procedure may be recommended to restore blood flow and help manage blood pressure.
Dr Alvin Ng 黄国雄医生
Senior Consultant Nephrologist and Medical Director
MBChB (Auckland), FRACP (Aus), FAMS (Renal Medicine)
Dr Alvin Ng is a senior consultant nephrologist with over two decades of experience in kidney care. Prior to setting up his own practice, Dr Ng was the Director of Peritoneal Dialysis at Changi General Hospital and executive committee member of the Singapore Society of Nephrology. He has held teaching appointments for medical students and residents, and is also a recipient of various service awards – a testament to the quality of care he provides.
Get in Touch with Us Today
We’re here to support you with clear guidance and personalised care for your kidney health. Whether you have questions or need professional advice, our team is ready to assist.
Book a Consultation with Our Singapore Kidney Specialist
Share your details with us and let us know how we can help. Our team will get in touch to arrange your appointment at a time that works best for you.