- Hypertension (high blood pressure) is when the pressure in your blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). It is common but can be serious if not treated. ( defined by WHO )
- Factors increasing the risk of high blood pressure include aging, genetic predisposition, excess weight, lifestyle, high-sodium intake, and excessive alcohol consumption. Lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthier diet, ceasing tobacco use, and increasing physical activity, can help reduce blood pressure. In some cases, medication may be necessary.
- Blood pressure is indicated by two numbers: systolic (during heart contractions) and diastolic (when the heart is at rest).
- Hypertension is diagnosed when, on two separate days, systolic readings are ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic readings are ≥90 mmHg.
- Regular monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and, if needed, medication are essential for managing high blood pressure and preventing associated health issues. Regular consultations with healthcare professionals are important for effective blood pressure management.
Key statistics (WHO) :
- An estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30–79 years worldwide are affected by hypertension, with the majority (two-thirds) residing in low- and middle-income countries.
- Alarmingly, about 46% of adults living with hypertension are unaware of their condition, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and regular health check-ups.
- Diagnosis and treatment rates for hypertension are less than optimal, with fewer than half (42%) of adults being diagnosed and treated for the condition.
- Only approximately 21% of adults with hypertension have their condition under control, highlighting a substantial gap in effective management.
- Hypertension is a significant contributor to premature deaths globally, emphasizing the urgency of addressing and managing this health concern.
- As part of global health targets for noncommunicable diseases, one objective is to reduce the prevalence of hypertension by 33% between 2010 and 2030, underscoring the importance of public health efforts in addressing this widespread issue.
Risk Factors :
- Adjustable risk factors encompass poor dietary choices (excessive salt, high saturated and trans fats, insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables), lack of physical activity, tobacco and alcohol use, and being overweight or obese.
- Unmodifiable risk factors include a family history of hypertension, age exceeding 65 years, and the presence of pre-existing conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.
Symptoms :
- Hypertension often shows no noticeable symptoms, with many individuals experiencing no overt signs.
- Elevated blood pressure levels might manifest symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, among others.
Health Implications :
- Regular blood pressure assessments are vital to diagnose hypertension, as untreated cases can lead to severe health complications like kidney disease, heart disease, and stroke.
Indications of Very High Blood Pressure (typically 180/120 or higher) may involve:
- Severe headaches
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Breathing difficulties
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Vision issues
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Ringing in the ears
- Nosebleeds
- Irregular heart rhythm
Emergency Care & Detection:
- If these symptoms coincide with elevated blood pressure, immediate medical attention is imperative.
- The sole method for identifying hypertension is through blood pressure measurement conducted by healthcare professionals.
- While individuals can utilize automated devices for self-monitoring, professional assessment is essential for gauging risks and identifying related conditions.
Consistent monitoring of blood pressure, adopting healthy lifestyle choices, and timely medical intervention are pivotal in managing and averting the complications linked to hypertension.
Treatment :
Implementing lifestyle changes is pivotal in addressing high blood pressure and may involve:
- Embracing a nutritious, low-sodium diet.
- Striving for weight loss.
- Regular engagement in physical activities.
- Cessation of tobacco use.
In instances of elevated blood pressure, healthcare professionals may prescribe one or more medications, with the target blood pressure levels varying based on existing health conditions. Objectives often aim for blood pressure below 130/80 for individuals with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or heightened cardiovascular risk. For the general population, the goal is maintaining blood pressure below 140/90.
Common blood pressure medications encompass:
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril, lisinopril): Facilitate relaxation of blood vessels and prevent kidney damage.
- Angiotensin-2 receptor blockers (ARBs) (e.g., losartan, telmisartan): Induce relaxation of blood vessels and prevent kidney damage.
- Calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine, felodipine): Promote relaxation of blood vessels.
- Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone): Aid in eliminating excess water from the body, thereby reducing blood pressure.
Prevention :
Crucial lifestyle adjustments contribute to the prevention and management of high blood pressure. While some individuals making these changes may still require medication, the following practices can contribute to lowering and preventing hypertension:
Do:
- Increase intake of vegetables and fruits.
- Reduce sedentary habits.
- Regularly engage in physical activity, encompassing walking, running, swimming, dancing, or strength-building exercises.
- Strive for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity.
- Include strength-building exercises at least 2 days per week.
- Manage weight, particularly for those who are overweight or obese.
- Adhere to prescribed medications and attend scheduled healthcare appointments.
Don’t:
- Consume excessive salty food (aim to stay under 2 grams per day).
- Consume foods high in saturated or trans fats.
- Engage in smoking or tobacco use.
- Exceed recommended alcohol intake (1 drink daily for women, 2 for men).
- Miss or share prescribed medication.
Effectively addressing hypertension not only prevents heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage but also mitigates other associated health risks. Additional risk reduction involves managing stress, regular blood pressure monitoring, treating hypertension, and effectively managing other medical conditions.
– Ritesh Srivastava (MBBS, Co-founder and Technical Manager, MCD)
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