HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE (HYPERTENSION): WHAT YOU MUST KNOW

High blood pressure (BP), or hypertension, is defined by two levels: (1) elevated BP, with a systolic pressure (SBP) between 120 and 129 mm Hg and diastolic pressure (DBP) less than 80 mm Hg, and (2) stage 1 hypertension, with an SBP of 130 to 139 mm Hg or a DBP of 80 to 89 mm Hg. Of note, hypertension can also be defined as an SBP (systolic blood pressure) of 140 mm Hg or greater and/or a DBP (diastolic blood pressure) of 90 mm Hg or above.

Hypertension often produces no symptoms but it can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. It is important to note that a short-lived high blood pressure can be a normal response to a particular situation. Stress and intense exercise, for example, can briefly elevate blood pressure in an otherwise healthy person. For this reason, a diagnosis of hypertension requires several readings to be taken that show sustained high blood pressure over time. You can therefore take blood pressure readings using your blood pressure (BP) machine in the morning, afternoon and evening for a required period of time (usually as advised by your healthcare provider). Take the average of those readings and note your BP-reading.

Symptoms

A person with hypertension may not notice any symptoms. Without initial detection, it can damage bodily organs like the heart, blood vessels, and kidneys. Therefore, it is vital for you to check your blood pressure regularly.

Causes

Primarily, hypertension can result from being obese, having insulin resistance, high salt intake, excessive alcohol intake, having a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking. Other conditions that can lead to hypertension include diabetes, cushing’s disease, hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, pregnancy, and many others.

Risk Factors

There ae a number of factors that increase the risk of acquiring hypertension. Some of these include; age, ethnicity, weight (obesity), alcohol and tobacco use, and existing health conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease).

What To Do

Engage in moderate intensity aerobic exercises. Jog, walk, cycle, or swim more often. Studies have shown that strength, or resistance training can also reduce hypertension in hypertensive people. Avoid or learn to manage your stress by meditation or yoga. You can prevent high blood pressure by following a heart-healthy diet too, as this is very important even for prevention of other Non-Communicable diseases.

References

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150109

https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/241381-overview?form=fpf