On this page, you will find all the information you need about hypertension.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension is a common condition in which the force of blood against the artery walls is high enough to cause health problems. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood the heart pumps and the resistance to blood flow in the arteries. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is typically presented as two numbers.
The top number (systolic pressure): The first or top number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
The bottom number (diastolic pressure): The second or bottom number measures the pressure in your arteries between beats.
There are two types of hypertension:
Primary hypertension: This is the most common type among people, developing gradually with age.
Secondary hypertension: This type affects individuals with health issues or those taking certain medications that lead to hypertension. The condition usually improves after treatment or when the medication is stopped.
What are the Symptoms of Hypertension?
Most people with hypertension do not have any symptoms, even if blood pressure levels reach dangerous highs. Some individuals with hypertension may experience symptoms that include:
Headache
Shortness of breath
Nosebleeds
What Causes Hypertension?
There is no specific cause for hypertension; it may be due to dietary habits or certain diseases and health conditions, such as:
Diabetes
Kidney diseases
Narrowing of the arteries
Lupus
Hypo or hyperthyroidism
Obesity
Sleep disorders
However, there are factors that increase the likelihood of developing hypertension, such as:
Family history
Age, especially over 65
High salt intake
High caffeine intake. For more details, refer to the coffee guide.
Smoking
Lack of exercise
What are the Diagnostic Methods?
Hypertension typically presents no symptoms, and the only way to determine if you have it is by regularly checking your blood pressure.
Healthy adults over 40 should have their blood pressure checked at least once every five years, while those at higher risk should have it checked at least once a year.
Blood Pressure Measurement Categories:
| Blood pressure category | Systolic Top Number (mm Hg) | Diastolic Bottom Number (mm Hg) | | — | — | — | | Ideal Blood Pressure | Less than 120 | Less than 80 | | Normal | 120 – 129 | 80 – 84 | | Pre-Hypertension | 130-139 | 85 – 89 | | Stage 1 Hypertension | 140 – 159 | 90 – 99 | | Stage 2 Hypertension | 160 – 179 | 100 – 109 | | Stage 3 Hypertension | Over 180 | Over 110 |
Home Blood Pressure Monitoring:
Here are some general guidelines for home blood pressure monitoring:
Avoid consuming caffeine 30 minutes before measuring.
Sit quietly and breathe deeply for five minutes with your back and legs supported.
Keep your elbow close to your heart level.
What are the Treatment Methods for Hypertension?
The treatment methods depend on adherence to medication and lifestyle changes for healthier living:
Regularly checking blood pressure
Following a diet low in salt and fats
Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding alcohol consumption
Engage in regular physical activity. For more details, refer to the movement guide for life.
Quit smoking. For more details, refer to the quitting smoking guide.
Managing stress
What are the Ways to Prevent Hypertension?
There are some ways you can prevent the risk of developing hypertension, which include:
Avoiding obesity
Reducing salt intake
Exercising
What are the Complications of Hypertension?
Consistently high blood pressure without lifestyle improvements or medication adherence may lead to complications such as:
Heart failure
Angina (chest pain).
Stroke
Kidney failure
Peripheral artery disease
Aneurysm (Blood vessel bulge).
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should see a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms or if hypertension persists without improvement:
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Vision disturbances
Severe headache
Difficulty speaking
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does stress cause hypertension?
The body releases certain hormones when stressed, which increase heart rate temporarily, causing a rise in blood pressure.
Is there a cure for hypertension?
There is no immediate cure for chronic hypertension, but there are medications that help manage and maintain normal blood pressure levels.
