What is hypertension?
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. This can put extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems.
Blood pressure is measured with two numbers, systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure measures the force of the blood against the artery walls when the heart beats, while diastolic blood pressure measures the force of the blood against the artery walls when the heart is at rest. A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mmHg. A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered to be hypertension.
Hypertension is a common condition, but it can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, and medications. It's important to have your blood pressure checked regularly and to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Symptoms of hypertension
In many cases, hypertension has no symptoms and is only discovered during a routine medical check-up. This is why it is often called the "silent killer." However, some people with hypertension may experience symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Blood in the urine
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor for a diagnosis. Hypertension can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications, but it can be dangerous if left untreated.
When to see a doctor for hypertension
If you think you may have hypertension, it's important to see a doctor for a diagnosis. High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems if left untreated.
A doctor can diagnose hypertension by measuring your blood pressure and asking about your medical history and any symptoms you may be experiencing. In some cases, further tests may be needed to determine the cause of your high blood pressure and to rule out any underlying conditions.
If you have high blood pressure, your doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan that is right for you. This may include lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, and medications to help lower your blood pressure. It's important to follow your treatment plan and to have your blood pressure checked regularly to ensure that it is under control.
Hypertension Causes
The exact cause of hypertension is not always clear, but there are several factors that can increase a person's risk of developing the condition. These include:
- Genetics: A person's risk of developing hypertension is higher if they have a family history of the condition.
- Age: The risk of developing hypertension increases as people get older.
- Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing hypertension.
- Lack of physical activity: Regular physical activity can help control blood pressure and lower the risk of developing hypertension.
- Diet: A diet that is high in processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats can increase the risk of developing hypertension.
- Race: Some racial and ethnic groups, such as African Americans, are more likely to develop hypertension than others.
- Stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of developing hypertension.
- Alcohol and tobacco use: Excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use can increase the risk of developing hypertension.
- Other health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as diabetes and sleep apnea, can increase the risk of developing hypertension.
Complications in hypertension
If left untreated, hypertension can lead to a number of serious health complications, including:
- Heart attack: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels and heart, which can increase the risk of a heart attack.
- Stroke: Hypertension can cause the blood vessels in the brain to become narrowed or blocked, which can lead to a stroke.
- Heart failure: Over time, high blood pressure can weaken the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure.
- Kidney damage: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure or chronic kidney disease.
- Eye problems: Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to vision loss and even blindness.
- Dementia: High blood pressure can increase the risk of developing dementia, especially in older adults.
It's important to manage your blood pressure and receive regular medical care to help prevent or delay these complications.