Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Introduction

Hypertension, commonly called high blood pressure, is a major global health concern. It is a condition in which the force of blood against the artery walls remains persistently high, causing the heart to work harder to pump blood. Over time, this strain can lead to severe health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

Known as the “silent killer,” hypertension often goes undiagnosed because it may not show symptoms until a major health event occurs. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hypertension is responsible for over 7.5 million deaths annually, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and management.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is measured in two numbers:

·         Systolic pressure: The pressure when the heart pumps blood.

·         Diastolic pressure: The pressure when the heart rests between beats.

·         Normal Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mmHg

·         Hypertension: Above 130/80 mmHg

Hypertension has two stages:

• Stage 1: Systolic 130–139 mmHg or diastolic 80–89 mmHg
• Stage 2: Systolic 140 mmHg or higher, or diastolic 90 mmHg or higher

There are also two types of hypertension:

• Primary Hypertension: Most common and develops over time without a specific cause.
• Secondary Hypertension: Less common and caused by underlying conditions like kidney disease or hormonal disorders.

Causes of Hypertension

Hypertension develops due to a combination of factors:

• Medical: Chronic kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, or sleep apnea.
• Genetic: Family history of hypertension.
• Biological: Aging and reduced blood vessel elasticity; men are at higher risk earlier in life, while women are more prone to post-menopause.
• Lifestyle:
  • High salt intake
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary habits
  • Smoking
  • Excess alcohol consumption
  • Chronic stress

Symptoms of Hypertension

Often, there are no symptoms, but in severe cases, people may experience:

• Headaches, especially in the morning
• Shortness of breath
• Nosebleeds
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Chest pain

How to Manage Hypertension

Hypertension is manageable with medications and lifestyle adjustments:

Medications

Doctors may prescribe:

• Diuretics: To eliminate excess sodium and water (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide).
• ACE Inhibitors: To relax blood vessels (e.g., enalapril).
• Beta Blockers: To reduce the heart’s workload (e.g., metoprolol).
• Calcium Channel Blockers: To relax blood vessel muscles (e.g., amlodipine).

Lifestyle Changes

• Healthy Diet: Follow the DASH diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting salt and sugars.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
• Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the heart.
• Quit Smoking: Avoid tobacco to improve heart health.
• Limit Alcohol: Drink in moderation—up to 2 drinks per day for men and 1 for women.
• Reduce Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.

Monitoring

Regular checkups and at-home monitoring can help keep blood pressure within a healthy range.

Conclusion

Hypertension is a serious condition, but with the right combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatment, and regular monitoring, it is manageable. Early detection is crucial to prevent complications and ensure a healthier life.

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