Understanding Hypertension: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood pressure in your arteries is elevated. The blood pressure reading is typically taken with an inflatable arm cuff and measures the pressure of blood flowing through your arteries as your heart beats.
There are two types of hypertension:
Primary hypertension (essential hypertension): This type of hypertension has no identifiable cause and accounts for 90-95% of all cases of hypertension. It tends to develop gradually over time, and risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, and a diet high in sodium.
Secondary hypertension: This type of hypertension is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. It tends to develop suddenly and can be more severe than primary hypertension. Causes of secondary hypertension include kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, and certain medications such as birth control pills, steroids, and decongestants.
Hypertension can cause damage to your body over time, including:
Heart attack and stroke: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels leading to your heart and brain, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Heart failure: The heart may become weakened and unable to pump enough blood to meet your body's needs.
Kidney disease: Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, leading to chronic kidney disease and even kidney failure.
Vision loss: High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to vision loss and even blindness.
Peripheral artery disease: Hypertension can cause the blood vessels in your legs and arms to narrow, reducing blood flow and increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Cognitive decline: Hypertension has been linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
Symptoms of hypertension are rare, but they may include:
Headaches, nosebleeds, and vision changes due to blood vessel damage in the eyes.
Shortness of breath, chest pain, and heart palpitations due to heart strain.
Fatigue, weakness, and swelling in the legs due to fluid buildup.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Hypertension can be diagnosed with a blood pressure reading taken over several visits to your healthcare provider. Additional tests may be ordered to determine the cause of hypertension if it is not clear. These tests may include:
Blood tests: To check for conditions such as kidney disease, thyroid disorders, and electrolyte imbalances that can contribute to hypertension.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): To check for heart rhythm abnormalities.
Echocardiogram: To assess the structure and function of your heart.
Stress test: To evaluate how your heart responds to physical activity.
Kidney function tests: To assess kidney function and detect any damage to the blood vessels in your kidneys.
Hypertension is typically treated with lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes may include:
Dietary changes: A diet low in sodium, processed foods, and saturated fats can help lower blood pressure.
Increased physical activity: Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve cardiovascular health.
Weight loss: If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help lower your blood pressure.
Stress management: Stress can raise blood pressure, so finding ways to manage stress such as through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be helpful.
Medications used to treat hypertension include:
Diuretics: To reduce fluid buildup in the body and lower blood pressure.
Beta blockers: To slow your heart rate and reduce blood pressure.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs): To lower blood pressure by blocking the action of certain hormones that constrict blood vessels.
Calcium channel blockers: To relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
Alpha blockers: To relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. With lifestyle changes and medication, you can effectively manage hypertension and reduce your risk of complications.
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