Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition in which the force of the blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. It is known as the "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms and can cause serious health problems, such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease, if left untreated. 

Signs and symptoms

In most cases, hypertension does not cause any noticeable signs or symptoms, even when the blood pressure is dangerously high. This is why regular blood pressure checks are so important. 

When hypertension becomes severe, it can cause symptoms such as: 

  • Severe headaches

  • Shortness of breath

  • Nosebleeds

  • Dizziness or fatigue

  • Blurred vision

  • Chest pain

  • Pounding in your chest, neck, or ears 

Diagnosis

The only way to know if you have hypertension is to have your blood pressure measured. A doctor or other healthcare provider will use a blood pressure cuff, usually placed around your arm, to get a reading. 

A blood pressure reading has two numbers: 

  • Systolic pressure (top number): Measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.

  • Diastolic pressure (bottom number): Measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. 

A diagnosis of hypertension is usually made based on the average of two or more high blood pressure readings taken on separate occasions. 

According to the American Heart Association, blood pressure is categorized as follows: 

  • Normal: Below 120/80 mmHg

  • Elevated: 120–129 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic

  • Stage 1 Hypertension: 130–139 mmHg systolic or 80–89 mmHg diastolic

  • Stage 2 Hypertension: 140 mmHg or higher systolic or 90 mmHg or higher diastolic

  • Hypertensive urgency: Higher than 180 mmHg systolic and/or higher than 120 mmHg diastolic (requires immediate medical care) 

Treatment

Treatment for hypertension typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. 

Lifestyle changes

  • Eat a healthy diet: Following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy, can help lower blood pressure.

  • Reduce sodium intake: Cutting back on salt, especially from processed foods, can significantly lower blood pressure. Aim for 1,500 to 2,300 mg of sodium per day, or as advised by your doctor.

  • Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise most days of the week, can lower blood pressure.

  • Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even a small amount of excess weight can make a big difference in controlling blood pressure.

  • Limit alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure.

  • Quit smoking: Smoking damages blood vessel walls and increases the risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.

  • Manage stress: Relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and regular exercise can help control stress, which can temporarily increase blood pressure. 

Medication

If lifestyle changes are not enough to control your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication. Common types of blood pressure medications include: 

  • Diuretics ("water pills"): Help the body eliminate excess sodium and water.

  • ACE inhibitors and ARBs: Help relax blood vessels.

  • Calcium channel blockers: Help relax blood vessel muscles.

  • Beta-blockers: Reduce the workload on the heart.

  • Other medications: Including alpha-blockers, alpha-beta blockers, and renin inhibitors, may be used, often in combination


 

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