Overview of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Hypertension is commonly known as high blood pressure (HBP), it is a chronic condition where the blood pressure in the arteries remains consistently elevated. If left untreated it increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and other serious complications. Hypertension is often called a (silent killer) because it may not cause noticeable symptoms until it leads to severe health issues.

Types of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

1. Primary Hypertension (Essential Hypertension): The most common type with no identifiable cause but influenced by genetics, age and lifestyle factors.

2. Secondary Hypertension: Caused by underlying medical conditions such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders or medication side effects.

Symptoms of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Hypertension is often asymptomatic but can cause:

Headaches

Dizziness

Blurred vision

Shortness of breath

Chest pain

Fatigue

Nosebleeds (in severe cases)

Causes of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Unhealthy diet like high sodium, processed foods and low potassium intake

Lack of physical activity

Obesity and being overweight

Excessive alcohol consumption

Smoking and tobacco use

Chronic stress

Genetic predisposition

Underlying health conditions like kidney disease, diabetes and thyroid disorders

Complications in Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Heart attack and stroke due to artery damage and blockage.

Heart failure (heart works harder and leads to enlargement).

Kidney damage which reduced kidney function and possible failure.

Vision problems (hypertensive retinopathy).

Aneurysm (weakened blood vessel walls).

Cognitive decline (linked to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease).

Risk Factors of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Age (higher risk as you grow older)

Family history of hypertension

Sedentary lifestyle

Unhealthy diet (high sodium and processed foods)

Obesity

Excess alcohol and tobacco use

Chronic stress

Medical conditions (diabetes and kidney disease)

Preventions of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Adopt a healthy diet (low salt, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains)

Exercise regularly at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily

Maintain a healthy weight

Limit alcohol consumption

Quit smoking

Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing

Monitor blood pressure regularly