High blood pressure (Hypertension): Symptoms, causes | Normal blood pressure

 What is blood pressure?

Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as it circulates through the body. It is an essential measure of cardiovascular health and is an important indicator of the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is represented by two numbers: the systolic pressure (top number) and the diastolic pressure (bottom number).

Systolic pressure is the force of blood against the artery walls when the heart beats, while diastolic pressure is the force of blood when the heart is at rest between beats. 

Blood pressure levels

Blood pressure levels refer to the numerical values that indicate the amount of pressure exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is represented by two numbers: the systolic pressure (top number) and the diastolic pressure (bottom number).

Normal blood pressure

A normal blood pressure measurement would indicate systolic pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mmHg. Blood pressure readings between 120-129 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic are considered elevated, while readings between 130-139 mmHg systolic or 80-89 mmHg diastolic are considered stage 1 hypertension. Readings above 140 mmHg systolic or 90 mmHg diastolic are considered stage 2 hypertension.

A single high reading does not necessarily indicate hypertension, as blood pressure can fluctuate throughout the day. Multiple readings over time are needed to establish a diagnosis of hypertension.

Blood pressure levels are an important indicator of cardiovascular health and can be affected by several factors, including age, genetics, weight, physical activity level, stress, and diet. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a medical condition affecting millions worldwide. It occurs when the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high, which can cause damage to the blood vessels and organs in the body over time.

There are two types of hypertension: primary hypertension, which develops gradually over time and has no identifiable cause, and secondary hypertension, which is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease or sleep apnea.

Symptoms of high blood pressure

High blood pressure is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it usually does not cause any symptoms in the early stages. Most people with high blood pressure do not even realize they have it until they experience a related health problem such as a heart attack or stroke. In some cases, high blood pressure may result in the following symptoms:

1. Headaches

2. Dizziness

3. Shortness of breath

4. Chest pain

5. Vision changes

6. Nausea

It is necessary to immediately seek medical attention if you encounter any of these symptoms. However, it is important to note that these symptoms may also be caused by other medical conditions, so it is important to get a proper diagnosis from a medical professional.

Causes of high blood pressure

Numerous factors can play a role in the onset of hypertension (high blood pressure). Several factors are frequently responsible for high blood pressure, including:

1. Genetics: Hypertension (high blood pressure) can be hereditary, indicating a genetic inclination towards the condition.

2. Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of high blood pressure, as it puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels.

3. Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can also increase the risk of high blood pressure, as regular physical activity helps to keep the heart and blood vessels healthy.

4. Smoking: Smoking damages the blood vessels, making them narrower and less flexible, which can lead to high blood pressure.

5. Stress: The body may generate hormones that elevate blood pressure in response to prolonged stress.

6. Sleep apnea: People with sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing stops and starts during sleep, are at increased risk of high blood pressure.

7. Age: As people age, the risk of high blood pressure increases.

8. Diet: A diet that is high in salt, saturated fats, and cholesterol can increase the risk of high blood pressure.

9. Chronic kidney disease: The kidneys play a vital role in regulating blood pressure. Chronic kidney disease can cause high blood pressure as the kidneys are unable to properly regulate blood pressure.

Treatment of high blood pressure

Multiple treatments are available for hypertension (high blood pressure), which include making lifestyle modifications and taking medication. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, exercising regularly, reducing salt intake, quitting smoking, and managing stress can all help to lower blood pressure. In certain cases, it may be required to use medication as a means of controlling elevated blood pressure.

What should we do to prevent high blood pressure?

Hypertension, also called high blood pressure, is a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide. It is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Fortunately, there are various lifestyle adjustments that can aid in preventing and controlling high blood pressure.

1. Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for high blood pressure. Losing weight through healthy eating and regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of other health problems.

2. Exercise regularly: Engaging in consistent physical activity can reduce blood pressure and enhance cardiovascular wellness. Strive for a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on a regular basis, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

3. Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Limit salt, saturated fat, and added sugars, which can contribute to high blood pressure.

4. Limit alcohol intake: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of other health problems. If you drink alcohol, limit consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

5. Quit smoking: Smoking cigarettes can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases. Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your cardiovascular health.

6. Manage stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of other health problems. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with friends and family.

7. Get regular check-ups: Regular blood pressure checks can help identify high blood pressure early and allow for prompt treatment. If you have high blood pressure, follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment and monitoring.

   
   
   

Making healthy lifestyle choices is essential for preventing and managing high blood pressure. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking, managing stress, and getting regular check-ups are all important steps you can take to lower your risk of high blood pressure and improve your overall cardiovascular health.