What is high blood pressure or hypertension?

High blood pressure is hypertension, meaning the blood pressure, a force of circulating blood on the arteries walls transcends normal levels. With the passage of time, hypertension can get worse and damage organs, including the brain, eyes, heart, kidneys, and others. However, the worst consequences are strokes and myocardial infarction. Your blood pressure changes throughout the day depending on your activities, age, and other factors. If you measure the blood pressure consistently above normal ranges (120/80 mm Hg), you may have hypertension.

It is good to consult a hypertension specialist to stay healthy!

How is hypertension diagnosed?

Measuring blood pressure is the best way to diagnose hypertension. In the blood pressure test, the pressure is read using a BP machine called a sphygmomanometer. Two numbers are considered when the blood pressure reading is recorded. Systolic BP (the above number shows the amount or level of pressure the blood exerts against the artery walls during the heartbeat. Diastolic BP (the number below) shows the level of pressure the blood exerts against the artery walls while the heart is in a state of repose between beats.

What are risk factors for hypertension?

Several risk factors favor the development of hypertension. In most cases, these are modifiable risk factors that can be avoided. Modifiable risk factors include the emotional state and situations of great stress, contributing to the risk of high blood pressure. These factors also include tobacco and excess alcohol consumption, and foods rich in saturated fat and a high amount of sodium (salt). Another prominent modifiable risk factor is physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle. Non-modifiable risk factors include a family history of hypertension, and in general, age increases the risk of developing hypertension. It is more common in men up to the age of 64 and in women from 65. It is also common in diabetic patients and during pregnancy.

Remember that you may not find symptoms in yourself to determine hypertension. You have to visit a blood pressure consultant as your routine medical examination to diagnose this disease. There can also be an extreme and unanticipated rise in BP, expressed through headache, nausea, and unclear vision.

What treatment options are available for high blood pressure?

You can manage mild hypertension by bringing minor changes to your lifestyle. You can reduce your excess weight, reduce your salt consumption, stop tobacco smoking, and engage in physical activities and exercise. If you need extra care to maintain your BP, you can consult a BP specialist to have some effective medication to keep blood pressure under control. As hypertension is perceived as a silent killer, you should consult a consultant to ensure your treatment is effective.

Remember that self-care is key to keeping your blood pressure normal!