Hypertension or high blood pressure is one of the most common health problems that people face these days. According to recent estimates, about 1.13 billion people worldwide have hypertension, making it a leading cause of death and disability globally.

This condition is also known as the “silent killer,” as there are often no visible symptoms. Hence, it is essential to understand the traditional rhythm of hypertension to control and prevent its long-term effects.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is a chronic condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is elevated. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood.

When this pressure is consistently high over time, it can cause damage to the blood vessels, heart, and other organs in the body.

How is blood pressure measured?

Blood pressure is measured using two numbers, systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts, and diastolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart is relaxed.

These two numbers are expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

What is the normal blood pressure?

The normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg, but it can vary depending on age, sex, height, and weight. A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered high or hypertension.

What are the causes of hypertension?

The exact cause of hypertension is unknown. However, several factors can contribute to the development of hypertension, such as:.

Obesity or overweight
Lack of physical activity
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Stress
Genetics
Age
Chronic kidney disease
Sleep apnea

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

In most cases, hypertension has no visible symptoms, which is why it’s called the silent killer. However, people with severe hypertension may experience the following symptoms:.

Headaches
Shortness of breath
Blurred vision
Nosebleeds
Fatigue
Chest pain

What are the long-term effects of hypertension?

If left untreated, hypertension can cause severe and long-term health problems, such as:.

Stroke
Heart attack
Heart failure
Kidney failure
Vision loss

How can hypertension be diagnosed?

A blood pressure reading can help diagnose hypertension. If your blood pressure is consistently high over time, your doctor may refer you to a specialist to run additional tests, such as:.

Cholesterol level test
Diabetes test
Urinalysis
Electrocardiogram
Echocardiogram
Stress test

How is hypertension treated?

Hypertension can be treated with lifestyle changes and medications, depending on the severity and your individual situation. Some of the treatments include:.

Weight loss
Regular physical activity
Healthy diet, such as the DASH diet
Smoking cessation
Reducing stress
Sleeping well
Medications, such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers

How can hypertension be prevented?

Preventing hypertension is better than treating it. Some of the things you can do to prevent hypertension include:.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as regular physical activity and a healthy diet
Maintaining a healthy weight
Reducing stress
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Managing chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease

Conclusion

Hypertension is a common and potentially deadly health problem that needs to be better understood. To prevent and control this condition, it’s essential to follow a healthy lifestyle and seek medical attention for high blood pressure readings.

With proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, hypertension doesn’t have to be a silent killer anymore.