Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

 

Introduction

Hypertension is a common chronic condition that occurs when the blood pressure inside the arteries remains elevated above the normal range — typically 140/90 mmHg or higher. Persistent high blood pressure damages blood vessels, allowing bad cholesterol to accumulate on artery walls, which reduces blood flow efficiency and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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Causes of Hypertension

Hypertension can be primary (essential) with no identifiable cause, or secondary, resulting from another medical condition. Common causes include:

• Kidney diseases

• Hormonal or thyroid disorders

• Diabetes mellitus

• Congenital defects in blood vessels

• Certain medications such as birth control pills, NSAIDs, or nasal decongestants

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Blood Pressure Measurement

Blood pressure is expressed as two numbers:

• Systolic pressure: when the heart beats.

• Diastolic pressure: when the heart rests between beats.

Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg.
A reading above 180/120 mmHg indicates a hypertensive crisis requiring immediate medical attention.

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Risk Factors

Risk factors that increase the likelihood of hypertension include:

• Family history of high blood pressure

• Age over 65 years

• Obesity and overweight

• Excessive salt intake

• Smoking and alcohol consumption

• High stress levels

• Pregnancy

• Underlying diseases such as diabetes or kidney disorders

• African descent

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Symptoms

High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it may not cause symptoms, but when it does, they may include:

• Severe headache

• Ringing in the ears

• Nosebleeds

• Irregular heartbeat

• Blurred vision

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Nausea or vomiting

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Complications

Untreated hypertension can lead to serious complications such as:

• Heart attack

• Stroke

• Kidney failure

• Vision problems

• Memory or cognitive difficulties

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Treatment and Prevention

Managing high blood pressure involves lifestyle modifications and medications prescribed by a healthcare provider. Recommendations include:

• Following a low-sodium, balanced diet

• Losing excess weight

• Quitting smoking and alcohol

• Exercising regularly

• Reducing caffeine intake

• Managing stress and anxiety

• Taking prescribed medications consistently

• Treating related conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol