Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

Considered as a ‘silent killer,’ hypertension can go undetected for years and lead to severe health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. But the good news is that hypertension is preventable and manageable. With a few lifestyle changes and regular checkups, you can keep hypertension in control.

In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, prevention, and diagnosis of hypertension.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is a medical condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries. Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood on the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it throughout the body.

When the blood pressure is consistently high over an extended period, it can cause damage to the arteries and other organs, including the heart, brain, and kidneys. Hypertension is usually diagnosed when the systolic blood pressure (the top number) reading is 140 mmHg or higher and the diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) reading is 90 mmHg or higher.

Causes of Hypertension

The exact cause of hypertension is often unknown, but some factors can increase the risk of developing this condition, including:.

Age: As we age, the risk of developing hypertension increases.
Family history: Hypertension may run in families.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on the blood vessels, leading to hypertension.
Smoking: Smoking damages the blood vessels and can cause hypertension.
Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise can contribute to the development of hypertension.
Stress: Chronic stress can increase blood pressure.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, and diabetes, can cause hypertension.

Symptoms of Hypertension

Hypertension is often called a ‘silent killer’ because it usually presents no symptoms in the early stages. Most people with hypertension don’t even know they have it until they experience severe health complications.

However, as the condition progresses, some people may experience the following symptoms:.

Headache
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Nausea and vomiting

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to speak to a doctor immediately.

Preventing Hypertension

Prevention is always better than cure. You can reduce your risk of developing hypertension by making some lifestyle changes, such as:.

Eating a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help maintain a healthy weight and keep blood pressure in check.
Exercising regularly: Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, strengthen the heart, and reduce stress.
Managing stress: Some stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure.
Avoiding tobacco: Smoking and tobacco consumption can increase blood pressure and damage blood vessels.
Limiting alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can increase blood pressure and damage the liver and other organs.

Diagnosing Hypertension

A doctor can diagnose hypertension with a blood pressure reading using a device called a sphygmomanometer. The test measures the pressure of the blood against the walls of the arteries.

If the reading is consistently above 140/90 mmHg, your doctor may recommend additional tests to check for underlying medical conditions or complications.

If you are diagnosed with hypertension, your doctor may suggest some lifestyle changes to help manage the condition, such as:.

Reducing salt intake: Too much salt in the diet can contribute to hypertension.
Taking medication: Your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your blood pressure.
Losing weight: Weight loss can help reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of complications.
Monitoring blood pressure: Regular blood pressure checks can help keep hypertension under control.

Conclusion

Hypertension is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. But it is preventable and manageable.

By making some lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress, you can reduce your risk of developing hypertension. If you are diagnosed with hypertension, working with your doctor and following the prescribed treatment plan can help keep the condition in check and reduce the risk of complications.