Hypertension

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition where the force of blood against the walls of the arteries remains consistently elevated. It is often called the “silent killer” because it may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages but can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision problems if left untreated.

Symptoms:

Most people with hypertension do not experience clear warning signs, which makes regular blood pressure monitoring essential. However, in some cases, individuals may notice headaches, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, fatigue, or blurred vision, particularly when blood pressure is extremely high.

Causes:

Hypertension can result from a variety of factors. Primary (essential) hypertension develops gradually over years without a specific cause, while secondary hypertension arises due to underlying conditions such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, thyroid problems, or use of certain medications. Contributing risk factors include obesity, high salt intake, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, stress, family history of hypertension, and increasing age.

Treatment:

Management of hypertension involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Adopting a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low in salt and saturated fats helps regulate blood pressure. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake are crucial. In many cases, doctors prescribe antihypertensive medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or calcium channel blockers to keep blood pressure under control. Regular monitoring and adherence to treatment are vital to prevent complications.