Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure in the arteries. This condition significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disorders such as heart attacks, strokes, and renal failure. Blood pressure is influenced by the amount of blood the heart pumps and the resistance of the arteries. An increase in either factor raises blood pressure.
Blood Pressure Categories:
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Pre-hypertension: 130–139/80–89 mmHg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 140–159/90–99 mmHg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: ≥160/≥100 mmHg
Types of Hypertension
- Primary (Essential) Hypertension: This is the most common type, affecting 90–95% of those with high blood pressure. Its exact cause is unknown but is believed to be related to factors such as aging, poor diet, genetics, and physical inactivity.
- Secondary Hypertension: Accounted for 5–10% of cases, secondary hypertension is caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease, endocrine disorders, or certain medications. Treating the underlying cause often resolves secondary hypertension.
Risk Factors for Hypertension
- Age: Blood pressure generally increases with age.
- Genetics: A family history of high blood pressure increases the risk.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts strain on the heart and circulation.
- Lack of Exercise: Sedentary lifestyles damage the heart and contribute to weight gain.
- Excessive Salt Consumption: Sodium causes the body to retain water, raising blood pressure.
- Alcohol Intake: Excessive drinking can elevate blood pressure.
- Smoking: Damages blood vessels and increases blood pressure.
- Stress: Long-term stress may contribute to hypertension.
Symptoms of Hypertension
Often called the “silent killer” because it typically doesn’t present symptoms until serious complications arise. However, some people might experience:
- Headaches, particularly in the morning
- Breathlessness
- Lightheadedness
- Chest pain
- Visual disturbances
- Fatigue or confusion
- Nosebleeds (in severe cases)
Regular monitoring is crucial as many people may not be aware of their condition.
Diagnosis of Hypertension
Diagnosing hypertension requires multiple readings, as a single elevated reading is not sufficient. Doctors often use home blood pressure monitoring or ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) to obtain accurate results.
- Measurement: Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) using a sphygmomanometer.
- Diagnostic Cutoff: Hypertension is confirmed by multiple sustained readings of 140/90 mmHg or higher.
Complications of Uncontrolled Hypertension
Untreated hypertension can lead to several severe health issues, including:
- Heart Disease: Increased risk of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and heart attacks.
- Stroke: Damage to arteries can lead to blockages or ruptures causing strokes.
- Kidney Damage: Leading cause of kidney failure and chronic renal disease.
- Vision Loss: Hypertensive retinopathy can cause blindness.
- Aneurysm: Weakened arteries may burst, causing potentially fatal internal bleeding.
- Cognitive Decline: Linked to dementia and cognitive impairment.
Management and Treatment of Hypertension
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Diet: Adopting a heart-healthy diet such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy while reducing salt intake.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes a day) helps strengthen the heart and lower blood pressure.
- Weight Loss: Losing excess weight can significantly reduce blood pressure.
- Alcohol and Smoking: Reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoking both improve blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.
Medication: When lifestyle changes are insufficient, antihypertensive medications may be prescribed, including:
- Diuretics: Help the kidneys eliminate fluids and salt.
- ACE Inhibitors: Prevent hormone production that narrows blood vessels.
- Calcium Channel Blockers: Relax blood vessels by keeping calcium out of heart and artery cells.
- Beta-Blockers: Lower heart rate and workload.
- ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers): Relax blood vessels by blocking angiotensin actions.
Prevention of Hypertension
Preventing hypertension involves addressing modifiable risk factors:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reduces stress on the heart.
- Balanced Diet: High in potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
- Reduce Salt Intake: Limit to no more than 2,300 mg daily (ideally 1,500 mg).
- Regular Exercise: Helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Stress Management: Techniques such as yoga and meditation can lower risk.
- Avoid Tobacco: Quitting smoking reduces blood pressure risk and improves heart health.
Conclusion
Hypertension is a common yet dangerous condition that often goes undiagnosed until severe complications arise. Regular blood pressure monitoring, combined with lifestyle changes and medical treatment, can help manage and prevent hypertension, promoting long-term cardiovascular health.
