High blood pressure (Hypertension) is a condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. This makes the heart work harder to pump blood throughout the body, increasing the risk of serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
1. Blood Pressure Measurement
- Measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as Systolic/Diastolic (e.g., 120/80 mmHg).
- Normal: Below 120/80 mmHg.
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mmHg.
- Hypertension (Stage 1): 130-139/80-89 mmHg.
- Hypertension (Stage 2): 140+/90+ mmHg.
- Hypertensive Crisis: 180+/120+ mmHg (Requires emergency care).
2. Causes of High Blood Pressure
- Primary Hypertension: No clear cause, develops over time (most common).
- Secondary Hypertension: Caused by underlying conditions like kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or certain medications.
3. Risk Factors
- Aging, family history, obesity, physical inactivity, high salt intake, smoking, excessive alcohol, and chronic stress.
4. Symptoms
- Often called the “Silent Killer” because it usually has no symptoms until it becomes severe.
- In extreme cases, symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and chest pain.
5. Complications
- Heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, vision loss, and aneurysm.
6. Treatment & Prevention
- Healthy diet (low salt, high in fruits & vegetables).
- Regular exercise and weight management.
- Stress reduction and avoiding smoking/alcohol.
- Medications if lifestyle changes aren’t enough.
