HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE || important things that everyone need to know about hypertension in order to be safe


HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE || important things that everyone need to know about hypertension in order to be safe

.                    
                       CONTENT

*Meaning

*Causes of hypertension

*Prevention of hypertension

*Advice for a hypertension patient 

Written by 
Chinagozi favour
Fact-checked by 
Last Updated: Sept • 

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition that affects the body’s arteries. It occurs when the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). In general, hypertension is a blood pressure reading of 130/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher.

High blood pressure can be caused by several factors, including age, family history, obesity, smoking, lack of physical activity, stress, and unhealthy dietIf left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

The symptoms of high blood pressure are not always noticeable. However, some people with high blood pressure may experience headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds

To prevent and treat high blood pressure, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet that is low in salt and fat, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking (if applicable), and reducing stress levels.

If you are concerned about your blood pressure levels or have any symptoms of high blood pressure, it’s important to consult with your doctor. They can help you determine the best course of action for your individual needs

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition in which the force of blood against the artery walls is too highThe exact causes of high blood pressure are not known, but it can be categorized into two types: primary hypertension and secondary hypertensionPrimary hypertension usually takes many years to develop and is probably a result of lifestyle, environment, and ageSecondary hypertension is high blood pressure caused due to health problems or certain medications.

       CAUSES OF HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

The following factors may increase the risk of developing high blood pressure:

  • Family history of high blood pressure
  • High salt intake or salt sensitivity
  • Smoking
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Too much alcohol consumption
  • Stress
  • Age - above 50 years

Health conditions that can cause high blood pressure include:

  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetes
  • Long-term kidney infections
  • Sleep apnea - where the walls of the throat relax and narrow during sleep, interrupting normal breathing
  • Glomerulonephritis - damage to the tiny filters inside the kidneys
  • Narrowing of the arteries supplying the kidneys

Untreated high blood pressure can cause heart disease and related complications such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure after a prolonged period. It’s important to have your blood pressure checked at least every two years starting at age 18. Some people need more-frequent checks. Healthy lifestyle habits such as not smoking, exercising, eating well, reducing salt intake, and managing stress can help prevent and treat high blood pressure.

    PREVENTION OF HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

High blood pressure can be regulated by making simple lifestyle changes. Here are some tips to help you avoid high blood pressure:

  1. Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure. Losing weight can help you lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of other health problems.

  2. Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower your blood pressure. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, every day.

  3. Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products can help lower your blood pressure. Limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and sodium.

  4. Reduce sodium intake: Consuming too much sodium can increase your blood pressure. Limit your sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) per day or less if you have high blood pressure.

  5. Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure. Men should limit their alcohol intake to two drinks per day, while women should limit their intake to one drink per day.

  6. Quit smoking: Smoking can damage your blood vessels and raise your blood pressure. Quitting smoking can help you lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of other health problems.

  7. Manage stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga.

  8. Monitor your blood pressure: Regularly monitoring your blood pressure can help you detect high blood pressure early and take steps to control it.

If lifestyle changes are not enough to control your high blood pressure, medications may be prescribed by a doctor 

Comments