Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is often referred to as the "silent killer " because it may not present noticeable symptoms but can lead to serious health problems if left unmanaged.
What is Hypertension ?
Hypertension is a condition where the force of the blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and recorded with two numbers: systolic (the pressure when your heart beats) over diastolic (the pressure when your heart rests between beats). A normal blood pressure reading is usually around 120/80 mm Hg.
Factors that increase the risk of developing hypertension
Several factors can increase your risk of developing hypertension, including:
- Age: Blood pressure tends to rise with age.
- Family history: Having a family history of high blood pressure can increase your risk.
- Lifestyle choices: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can contribute to hypertension.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put additional strain on your heart and increase blood pressure.
- Chronic conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease can increase your risk.
- Stress: High levels of stress over long periods can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
Management of Hypertension
Managing hypertension involves a combination of lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication.
Here are some key strategies:
- Diet: Adopt a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet. Focus on reducing salt intake and eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking or cycling.
- Weight management: Maintain a healthy weight or work towards weight loss if you are overweight.
- Limit alcohol and quit smoking: Reduce alcohol consumption and avoid smoking to lower blood pressure.
- Medication: If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage your blood pressure. It is important to take these medications as directed.
- Regular monitoring: Regularly check your blood pressure and have routine check-ups with your healthcare provider to track your progress and adjust treatment if necessary.
What Happens if Hypertension is Not Addressed in Time?
If hypertension is not managed properly, it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening health issues. Prolonged high blood pressure can damage your arteries, leading to:
- Heart disease: Increased risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, and heart failure.
- Stroke: Higher likelihood of having a stroke due to the damage to blood vessels in the brain.
- Kidney damage: Potential for chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
- Vision loss: Damage to the blood vessels in the eyes can lead to vision problems or blindness.
- Aneurysms: Increased risk of aneurysms (bulging blood vessels) which can be life-threatening if they rupture.
Hypertension is a common yet serious condition that requires attention and management. By understanding what hypertension is, recognizing the risk factors, you can take control of your health. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes, along with medical treatment if needed, play a vital role in preventing the severe consequences associated with uncontrolled high blood pressure.
