High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
What is High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it typically has no obvious symptoms, yet can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (when the heart rests between beats).
Why is High Blood Pressure important?
High blood pressure is important because it:
- Increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss if left untreated.
- Can damage the arteries over time, leading to narrowing and hardening of the arteries, which further raises blood pressure.
- Is often asymptomatic, meaning many people are unaware they have it until complications arise, making regular monitoring essential.
- Can be managed or prevented with lifestyle changes, medications, and regular health monitoring, reducing the risk of severe health issues.
Managing high blood pressure is crucial to reduce the risk of life-threatening complications and promote long-term health.
How does High Blood Pressure affect health?
High blood pressure affects health by:
- Increasing the risk of heart disease: Hypertension can lead to heart failure, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular diseases by damaging the heart and arteries.
- Causing stroke: Persistent high blood pressure can cause blood vessels in the brain to weaken or rupture, leading to a stroke.
- Damaging the kidneys: High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney disease or kidney failure over time.
- Affecting vision: Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision loss or other eye problems.
Managing blood pressure is key to preventing the long-term health risks associated with hypertension.
How can I manage High Blood Pressure?
To manage high blood pressure:
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy while limiting sodium and processed foods.
- Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, to strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight increases the risk of developing high blood pressure.
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
- Take prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare provider to help control blood pressure levels.
Managing high blood pressure involves lifestyle changes, stress management, and medical treatment to reduce health risks and improve quality of life.
Key Takeaways from a Nutritionist
- High blood pressure is a silent condition that can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
- Managing hypertension involves a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and medication to reduce risks and improve health.
- Regular blood pressure monitoring and lifestyle changes can help prevent complications and promote long-term cardiovascular health.