Understanding Hypertension: also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition affecting millions of individuals worldwide. It is sometimes referred to as a “silent epidemic” because many individuals may not show any signs or symptoms; however, it can still be causing serious injury to the heart, blood vessels, and other organs over time. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Detecting hypertension early, changing behaviors and ultimately preserving it in a healthy way is critical to preventing the consequences of long-term hypertension.

What is Hypertension? Blood pressure is the force applied by circulating blood against the walls of arteries. Blood pressure is recorded in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) as two numbers.

1,Systolic Pressure: The larger number indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart is pumping.

2,Diastolic Pressure: The lower number, which shows the pressure that the arteries are under while the heart is at rest between heart beats. Blood pressure is usually thought of as normal if it is around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure has been maintained over 130/80 mmHg. Hypertension is organized into two categories.

Stage 1 Hypertension occurs when someone has a systolic reading between 130 to 139 mmHg or a diastolic reading from 80 to 89 mmHg.

Stage 2 Hypertension occurs when someone has an actual systolic reading of 140 mmHg or greater, or a diastolic reading of 90 mmHg or greater.

Causes of Hypertension: There are two types of hypertension: primary (essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension.

1,Primary Hypertension: This type of hypertension does not have a clear cause and develops over time, usually many years. Primary hypertension is more common in adults and is often related to the following lifestyle factors: poor diet, inactivity, excessive alcohol use, and stress.

2,Secondary Hypertension: This type of hypertension is caused by another health condition (e.g. kidney disease, hormonal disorders) or the use of certain prescriptions (e.g. birth control pills or decongestants). Secondary hypertension will appear suddenly and can be more severe than primary hypertension.

Risk Factors: There are several risk factors that increase the chance of developing hypertension.

1,Age: The risk of developing hypertension increases as persons grow older. Hypertension is more common in people 45 years and older.

2,Family History: Having a family history of high blood pressure and yet running their family history increases your chance.

3,Obesity: Being overweight or having obesity applies additional stress to the heart and blood vessels, causing high blood pressure.

4,Physical Inactivity: Inactivity can result in weight gain and increased blood pressure.

5,Diet: Diets high in sodium (salt), low in potassium, and diets composed of mostly processed foods can also increase blood pressure.

6,Smoking: Smoking raises the blood pressure in addition to damaging the walls of the blood vessels.

7,Chronic Stress: Long-term stress can contribute to high blood pressure. 8,Excessive Alcohol Use: Alcohol use can lead to increased blood pressure.

Signs and Symptoms: Hypertension is sometimes recognized as the “silent killer” because it usually does not produce obvious signs or symptoms until it has caused damage. Some people experience noticeable side effects such as headaches, lightheadedness or dizziness, shortness of breath, or nose bleeds, but these are not by themselves indicative that someone having hypertension. The only way to confirm such diagnosis of hypertension is to monitor blood pressure. Consequences of Untreated Hypertension: Untreated or uncontrolled hypertension can lead to several serious health complications, some of include: 1,Cardiac Disease: Having high blood pressure can lead to coronary artery disease, heart failure, or enlargement of the heart.

2,Stroke: High blood pressure is a very important risk factor for stroke because it can cause blood vessels in the brain to rupture or become blocked.

3,Kidney Damage: Long-term high blood pressure can cause damage to the kidneys, leading to kidney disease or kidney failure.

4,Vision Loss: Damage to blood vessels in the eye can cause vision problems or even blindness.

5,Aneurysm: Long-term hypertension can cause blood vessels to weaken and bulge. This can result in aneurysms which can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding.

1,Medication: If making changes to your lifestyle is not enough, medications can be given to help lower blood pressure. Some common types of antihypertensive drugs are:

1,Diuretics

2,ACE inhibitors

3, Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)

4,Beta-blockers

5,Calcium channel blockers

2,Monitoring: One way in which people with hypertension can manage the condition is through monitoring of blood pressure regularly.

Prevention: The best way in which hypertension can be prevented is to live a healthy lifestyle. Some measures can be taken to live more healthily:

• Maintain a healthy body weight

• Eat a heart-healthy diet

• Stay physically active

• Do not drink a lot of alcohol

• Manage your stress

• Do not smoke

Conclusion: Hypertension is a very common, yet serious disease that may lead to severe health conditions if untreated. If detected early and a lifestyle modification is made, coupled with medical treatment, a longer and healthier life can be achieved. Blood pressure monitoring is vital, especially for those at risk or with a family history of hypertension. The higher the blood pressure the more serious the risk. The healthier the lifestyle choices made by the individual the associated risk will diminish. Follow-up with your Health Care Provider in a timely fashion.