High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as it circulates throughout the body. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is typically expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number). Systolic pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while diastolic pressure measures the pressure between beats.

Types of High Blood Pressure

There are two main types of high blood pressure:

• Primary Hypertension: This type of hypertension develops gradually over many years and is the most common form. It has no identifiable cause, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors.
• Secondary Hypertension: This type of hypertension is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, or adrenal gland tumors. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as birth control pills and cold remedies.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure often has no symptoms, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the "silent killer." However, some people may experience:

• Headaches
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nosebleeds
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Chest pain or shortness of breath (in severe cases)

Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure

Certain factors can increase a person's risk of developing high blood pressure, including:

• Age: The risk of high blood pressure increases with age.
• Family history: Having a family history of high blood pressure increases the risk.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase blood pressure.
• Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to high blood pressure.
• Smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
• Sodium intake: Consuming too much sodium can increase blood pressure.
• Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure.

Treatments for High Blood Pressure

Treatment for high blood pressure typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes may include:

• Dietary changes: Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is low in sodium and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Weight loss: Losing weight if overweight or obese.
• Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming.
• Stress reduction: Practicing stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing.
• Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking if a smoker.

Medications that may be prescribed to treat high blood pressure include:

• Diuretics: Help the body get rid of excess fluid and sodium.
• Beta blockers: Slow the heart rate and reduce blood pressure.
• ACE inhibitors: Block the production of a hormone that constricts blood vessels.
• Calcium channel blockers: Relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.
• Alpha blockers: Relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.

Complications of Untreated High Blood Pressure

If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious complications, including:

• Heart attack or stroke
• Kidney disease or failure
• Vision loss or blindness
• Cognitive decline or dementia
• Peripheral artery disease

Regular monitoring and treatment of high blood pressure can help prevent these complications and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.