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Blood pressure is defined as the force exerted by the blood on the wall of the arteries. If it exerts persistently more pressure than normal then we call it hypertension or high blood pressure. This extra force can damage the arteries, leading to health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. In this blog, we will discuss the ABCs of hypertension, including its causes, symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and more.
Normal blood pressure is typically defined as a systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart pumps blood) of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart is resting between beats) of less than 80 mmHg. Hypertension is diagnosed when the systolic pressure is consistently 130 mmHg or higher or the diastolic pressure is 90 mmHg or higher.
What Health Problems does Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Cause?
Hypertension is a serious condition as it can increase the risk of a number of health problems, including stroke, heart disease (heart attack, heart failure), chronic kidney disease, and vision loss. It is sometimes called the "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms, so many people may not realize they have it. That is why it is important to have regular blood pressure checks and to work with a healthcare provider to manage it.
Causes and Risk Factors
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of hypertension, including genetics, lifestyle factors (such as diet, physical activity, and stress), and underlying medical conditions.
Some common risk factors for Hypertension include:
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Age
As people age, their risk of having high blood pressure increases.
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Gender
Men are at higher risk to develop hypertension than women.
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Family History
Having a family history of high blood pressure increases your likelihood of developing the disease.
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Weight
Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for hypertension.
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Stress
High-stress levels can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
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Diet
Eating a diet high in sodium, saturated fat, and processed foods can lead to hypertension.
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Sedentary Lifestyle
Lack of physical activity can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
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Alcohol & Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products can increase your risk of developing hypertension.
Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Usually, people with Hypertension don’t experience any symptoms for years and even at very high blood pressure readings. However, some people complain of certain symptoms, such as:
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Chest pain
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Shortness of breath.
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Nosebleeds
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Difficulty sleeping
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Blurred vision
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Irregular heartbeat
These symptoms are not specific. Thus, consider monitoring your blood pressure regularly to make sure it is under control.
Management and Treatment
There are several ways to manage and treat high blood pressure, including lifestyle changes and medication.
Lifestyle changes that can help manage blood pressure are:
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Eat a Healthy Diet
A DASH diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fat-free and low-fat dairy products can help lower blood pressure. Limit salt and alcohol intake, as these can contribute to high blood pressure.
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Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure and improve overall health. Try engaging for at least 30 minutes in moderate-intensity exercises, such as brisk walking, running, or swimming, most days of the week.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight
Losing excess weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help lower blood pressure.
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Quit Smoking
Smoking can significantly increase the risk of high blood pressure and other serious health problems. Quitting smoking can definitely help lower blood pressure.
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Reduce Stress
Stress can have a direct effect on your blood pressure. Learning how to manage stress can go a long way in controlling your blood pressure and reducing your risk of heart disease.
To get the best hypertension treatment in Malleshwaram, Bangalore, consult with the doctors at Manipal Hospitals.
Requirement of Medications
If lifestyle changes are not enough to lower your blood pressure, medication is required. There are several types of medications that can be used to treat high blood pressure, including:
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Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
These medications work by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the amount of angiotensin, a hormone that can cause blood vessels to narrow.
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Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
These medications work by blocking the action of angiotensin, which helps to relax the blood vessels.
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Beta-Blockers
These medications work by blocking the action of certain hormones that can raise blood pressure, such as adrenaline.
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Calcium Channel Blockers
These medications work by relaxing the muscles in the blood vessels and allowing blood to flow more easily.
If you have high blood pressure, you should work closely with an internal medicine specialist in Malleshwaram, Bangalore to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs. It may take some time to find the right combination of lifestyle changes and medication that works for you, but with proper treatment, it is possible to effectively manage and control high blood pressure, preventing serious consequences.
Department of Internal Medicine
Manipal Hospitals, Malleshwaram, Bangalore
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