Hypertension : causes, symptoms, types, risk factors, diagnosis, treatmen, prevention and complications - Naija health media
Hypertension: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
- Research : Rchp. Khalpha Justice
- Medical Reviewed : Murtala Bashir buk Ph.D
- Editor : Victoria solomon (B.A English language)
Introduction
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by increased force exerted by blood against the walls of blood vessels. It is a significant public health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure. This article will cover the types, signs and symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and complications of high blood pressure.
Types of Hypertension
There are two main types of hypertension: primary (essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension.
- Primary hypertension: This type of hypertension has no identifiable cause and develops gradually over time. It is the most common type of high blood pressure, accounting for about 90-95% of all cases.
- Secondary hypertension: This type of hypertension is caused by an underlying medical condition such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, or adrenal gland tumors. It develops suddenly and is more common in younger adults.
Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms, which is why it is known as the "silent killer."
However, in some cases, people may experience the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Nosebleeds
- If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to more severe symptoms such as:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
Causes and Risk Factors of High Blood Pressure
The exact causes of high blood pressure are unknown, but several factors can increase the risk of developing the condition, including:
- Age
- Genetics
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, and obesity
- Certain medical conditions like sleep apnea, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease
- High salt intake
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Other risk factors for high blood pressure include:
- Stress
- Certain medications such as NSAIDs, birth control pills, and decongestants
- Illegal drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines
- Drugs That Can Cause High Blood Pressure
- Certain medications can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure, including:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Birth control pills
- Decongestants
- Some prescription drugs used to treat depression and anxiety
It is essential to speak with your doctor before stopping or changing any medication.
How Is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
Blood pressure is measured using a blood pressure cuff or sphygmomanometer.
A diagnosis of high blood pressure is made when systolic pressure (the top number) is consistently over 130 mm Hg, and diastolic pressure (the bottom number) is consistently over 80 mm Hg.
Duration of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a chronic medical condition that can last a lifetime.
However, with proper management and treatment, it can be controlled to reduce the risk of complications.
Treatment and Medication Options for High Blood Pressure
Treatment for high blood pressure typically involves lifestyle changes and medication.
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and reducing salt intake can help lower blood pressure.
Medications commonly used to treat high blood pressure include:
- Diuretics
- ACE inhibitors
- Calcium channel blockers
- Beta-blockers
- Angiotensin receptor blockers
It is essential to work with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for you.
Using Diet to Treat High Blood Pressure
Dietary changes can also help manage high blood pressure. Some dietary changes that can be helpful include:
- Reducing sodium intake
- Eating more fruits and vegetables
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Reducing saturated and trans fats
- Eating more whole grains
Following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet can also be effective in managing high blood pressure.
Prevention of High Blood Pressure
Lifestyle changes can help prevent high blood pressure from developing. Some preventive measures include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Regular physical activity
- Reducing salt intake
- Eating a healthy diet
- Quitting smoking
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Managing stress
Complications of High Blood Pressure
If left untreated or poorly managed, high blood pressure can lead to serious complications such as:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss
It is important to manage high blood pressure and work with a healthcare provider to reduce the risk of complications.
Research and Statistics: How Many People Have High Blood Pressure?
According to the World Health Organization, about 1.13 billion people worldwide have high blood pressure.
In the United States, about 45% of adults have high blood pressure.
Related Conditions and Causes of High Blood Pressure
- High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
- High blood pressure during pregnancy, also known as gestational hypertension, can lead to complications for both the mother and baby.
- It is important for pregnant women to monitor their blood pressure and work with a healthcare provider to manage it.
PTSD and High Blood Pressure
- Research has shown a link between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and high blood pressure.
- PTSD can lead to increased stress, which can contribute to the development of high blood pressure.
It is important for individuals with PTSD to work with a healthcare provider to manage their symptoms and reduce their risk of high blood pressure.
___Conclusion___
Hypertension is a chronic medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it may have no noticeable symptoms, it can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Lifestyle changes, medication, and dietary changes can help manage high blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for you and to monitor your blood pressure regularly.
References:
- American Heart Association. (2022). What is High Blood Pressure? Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/why-high-blood-pressure-is-a-silent-killer/what-is-high-blood-pressure
- American Heart Association. (2022). High Blood Pressure. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). High Blood Pressure. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/index.htm
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). High Blood Pressure (Hypertension). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373410
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). DASH Eating Plan. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/dash-eating-plan
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). How Is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed? Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/diagnosis
- Whited, L., Muldoon, M. F., Manuck, S. B., & Matthews, K. A. (2010). The relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder and hypertension in a United States veteran population. The American Journal of Cardiology, 106(6), 902-906. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2010.05.020
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2022). Hypertension in Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2022/07/hypertension-in-pregnancy
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2022). High Blood Pressure & Kidney Disease. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/high-blood-pressure
- American Heart Association. (2022). Understanding Blood Pressure Readings. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-readings
