Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is often called the “silent killer” because it can go unnoticed until it causes severe health problems. In fact, hypertension affects over 1 billion people worldwide and is responsible for an estimated 7.5 million deaths annually. Understanding the risks of hypertension and how to prevent it is crucial for maintaining good health and longevity.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension is a condition that occurs when the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in two numbers - the systolic pressure (when the heart beats) and the diastolic pressure (when the heart is at rest). A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. However, a reading consistently above 140/90 mmHg can be considered hypertensive and requires medical attention.
Hypertension is classified according to severity:
Essential hypertension, or primary hypertension, is the most common type of high blood pressure. It means no specific underlying medical condition causing high blood pressure. Factors contributing to essential hypertension include genetics, lifestyle factors (such as diet and exercise), stress, and age.
Managing essential hypertension is important, as it can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease and stroke. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and medication to lower blood pressure. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are important for monitoring and managing essential hypertension.
Primary hypertension (which occurs in about 90% of people) has no identifiable cause.
Secondary hypertension (about 10% of people) has a known underlying cause, such as renal, endocrine, or vascular disorder or the use of certain drugs.
Symptoms and Risks of Hypertension
Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it typically presents no noticeable symptoms. However, over time it can cause severe damage to the arteries, heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. Hypertension-related health problems include heart attacks, strokes, aneurysms, kidney failure, and vision loss. Hypertension is also a leading cause of dementia and cognitive impairment in the elderly.
Long-term effects of Hypertension
Hypertension affects a quarter of the adult population in the United Kingdom. It accounts for 60% of all strokes in the UK and half of all heart attacks, but because the condition is usually symptomless, most people have no idea they are at risk until it is too late.
Hypertension and chronic pain
Hypertension and mental health
High blood pressure in young people may cause long-term brain issues.
Brain damage caused by Hypertension could contribute to dementia.
Hormones and Hypertension
Salt and Hypertension
Alcohol on hypertension
Managing Hypertension and Mental Health
Prevention and Treatment of Hypertension