Arterial hypertension, also called high blood pressure, affects millions of people worldwide. It is a medical condition characterized by a constant increase in the force of blood flow through the walls of arteries.

The force exerted by blood on the walls of arteries is known as blood pressure. When the blood pressure stays persistently higher than the normal range (120/80 mmHg), hypertension develops. Arterial hypertension severely affects the heart and can also cause damage to kidneys, eyesight, and the brain.

The Causes of Arterial Hypertension

The precise causes of hypertension are not well understood and can vary from person to person.

However, it has been observed that our lifestyle or genetic factors, environmental factors, and even certain underlying health conditions, can contribute to the development of arterial hypertension. Below are the main causes:.

Unhealthy lifestyle choices such as a diet high in salt, cholesterol, and fats, and low in fruits and vegetables are known to increase the risk of hypertension.

Too much salt in the diet, for example, can cause fluid accumulation in the blood vessels, leading to an increase in blood pressure.

Physical inactivity can lead to weight gain and increase your blood pressure. Regular exercise can help reduce hypertension. .

Smoking and consuming alcohol both have a direct link to high blood pressure and can cause hypertension. Alcohol elevates your blood pressure and damages the cells that line your arteries.

Smoking, on the other hand, contributes to narrowing arteries, which in turn increases blood pressure.

Obesity is a major cause of hypertension due to its tendency to cause high cholesterol and high triglycerides levels.

Stress can impact the body by elevating the cortisol levels which can cause changes in blood pressure. It can also cause an increase in heart rate and lead to hypertension.

The risk of hypertension increases as we age. About 75% of people aged 65 years and older have hypertension.

Management of Arterial Hypertension

Preventive measures are the first priority when aiming for healthy blood pressure; however, lifestyle changes may not be sufficient for everyone. Sometimes, medications are required to manage hypertension.

For hypertension management, the following approaches can be helpful:.

Lifestyle modification is an effective approach to manage hypertension. This includes:.

When lifestyle changes alone cannot lower blood pressure enough, your doctor may prescribe medications to manage arterial hypertension. The most common types of hypertension medications include:.

Diuretics
Beta-blockers
Calcium Channel Blockers
ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme)
ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers)

Usually hypertension medications are taken in combination, and it may take a few weeks to find the right mix and dosages that will work for managing your hypertension.

Conclusion

In conclusion, arterial hypertension is a significant health problem that can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other complications.

Knowing the risk factors for hypertension and taking preventive measures through healthy lifestyle choices can effectively lower your risk of hypertension. If you have already been diagnosed with hypertension, taking your medication, and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial to the management of this condition.