All You Need To Know About Hypertension

The term ‘hypertension’ came into existence in 1895 and primarily means abnormally high blood pressure i.e. the systolic pressure is higher than 120 mmHg and the diastolic blood pressure is above 80 mmHg. It is the primary cause of strokes and heart attacks. The good part is it’s quite manageable. By following timely treatment plans and medication you can control it and lower any complications related to high blood pressure.

1. Symptoms of Hypertension

It’s extremely important to get regular checkups to rule out hypertension. It’s possible that you may have high blood pressure, but don’t know it. Certain symptoms to look for if you have high blood pressure would include:-

• Vision issues
• Chest pains
• Severe headaches
• Blood in urine
• Irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty in breathing
• Confusion and fatigue
• Thumping in your chest, ears and neck
• Nausea and vomiting

2. Causes of hypertension

Too much sodium

High blood pressure can be caused by an excessive intake of salt or sodium; more than 1,500 milligrammes per day. This can also lead to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases regardless of one’s age, family history or current health condition.

Age

The older you are, the higher are the chances of your blood pressure going up. As you age, getting a frequent checkup and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet should take precedence.

Obesity

Overweight or obesity is another criteria or cause of hypertension. Some of the most common reasons are poor diet, sedentary lifestyles, and raised insulin levels. All these reasons put together can lead to diabetes, a stroke or a heart attack.

Family history

If anyone in your family has a history of blood pressure, then it’s time you got checked out as well.  Hypertension can also be attributed to heredity so don’t take any chances.

Bad habits

The excessive consumption of alcohol, smoking, use of recreational drugs and stimulants such as cocaine and crystal methamphetamine will put undue pressure on your heart and arteries and cause major damage. This, coupled with age and an unbalanced diet (often a result from partaking in these activities), can lead to a sharp rise in blood pressure and increase your chances of a heart attack or a stroke.

Hormonal conditions

Some hormonal diseases and conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (body produces large amounts of steroid hormones) can also lead to hypertension.

Lifestyle-related

Stress from work, a sedentary or inactive lifestyle can also cause a rise in blood pressure leading to hypertension. Check out some lifestyle changes you can make to lower your blood pressure.

3. Treatment for hypertension

Your aim should be to lower your blood pressure while protecting important organs like your brain, heart and kidneys from damage. Here are a few simple tips to control hypertension:-

Medication

Blood pressure medication works in different ways to stop some of the symptoms that cause high blood pressure. These include alpha blockers, diuretics, centrally acting agents, and vasodilators among others.

Remain physically active

Follow a simple routine that ensures some physical activity. If you’re suffering from hypertension, ask your doctor to recommend the physical activities that are safe for you. For others, the more active you are the more you can keep hypertension at bay. Brisk walks daily, a few minutes of yoga or home exercises can do wonders for your overall health and heart condition.

Maintain healthy weight

Controlling your weight can immensely help maintain your blood pressure and also reduce the risk of other health problems. Get a BMI reading and work to maintain it as best you can.

Coping with stress

Finding ways to manage your stress levels will make sure your blood pressure levels are regulated as well. Stress management techniques include meditation, yoga, and being physically active.

So, to control hypertension or blood pressure, one must follow treatment plans and consider taking medications as prescribed. Following a prescribed treatment plan will lower all complications related to high blood pressure and also lower risk other related issues.

Wellness and health blogs like this one educate you on everything you need to know on how to lead a better life. You can browse more articles like ways to control blood pressure and acupressure for hypertension.