Hypertension, Adult

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, occurs when the force of blood pumping through the arteries is too strong. Arteries are blood vessels responsible for carrying blood from the heart throughout the body. If left untreated or uncontrolled, hypertension can lead to severe complications like heart attacks, heart failure, strokes, kidney disease, and other health problems.

A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, with the first (systolic pressure) representing the pressure in the arteries during heartbeats, and the second (diastolic pressure) indicating the pressure when the heart is at rest. Ideally, a healthy blood pressure should be below 120/80 mm Hg.

The exact cause of hypertension is often unknown, but certain conditions contribute to its development. Some risk factors are within our control, including smoking, lack of physical activity, being overweight, and consuming excessive fat, sugar, calories, or sodium (salt). Other risk factors include stress, a family history of hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease, kidney disease, and obstructive sleep apnea. The risk of hypertension also increases with age.

Hypertension may not exhibit noticeable symptoms, but extremely high blood pressure levels (hypertensive crisis) can lead to symptoms like headaches, palpitations (rapid or irregular heartbeats), shortness of breath, nosebleeds, nausea, vomiting, vision changes, chest pain, dizziness, and seizures.

Diagnosing hypertension involves measuring blood pressure while seated with your arm resting on a flat surface, legs uncrossed, and feet flat on the floor. Blood pressure should be measured at least twice using the same arm. Lifestyle modifications are often the first line of treatment, including adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and limiting alcohol consumption. For some individuals, medications may be prescribed if lifestyle changes are insufficient in controlling blood pressure.

– Follow a diet high in fiber and potassium, low in sodium, added sugar, and fat. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan is an example.

– Engage in regular aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week, and incorporate resistance exercises to strengthen muscles.

– Avoid products containing nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and vaping devices.

– Monitor blood pressure as directed by the healthcare provider.

– Keep all follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider.

When necessary, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to help manage hypertension. It’s crucial to take these medications as prescribed, without skipping doses, to ensure their effectiveness and minimize potential risks or side effects.

– You suspect a reaction to a medication or experience recurring headaches, dizziness, ankle swelling, vision issues, or other concerning symptoms.

– You develop severe headaches, confusion, weakness, numbness, faintness, severe chest or abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, or difficulty breathing.

In such cases, seek immediate medical help as these symptoms may indicate an emergency.

Hypertension requires careful management through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication. Regular monitoring and communication with a healthcare provider are essential to maintain healthy blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with hypertension. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.