High Blood Pressure – The Silent Killer Blood Pressure refers to the pressure of the blood on the inner walls of the arteries. A person’s blood pressure is defined by two measurements – systolic (the pressure in the arteries produced when the heart contracts at the time of a heartbeat) and diastolic (the pressure in the arteries during relaxation of the heart between heartbeats).A normal blood pressure reading should be 120/80. However, a single high reading does not indicate hypertension. The doctor usually advises repeat testing after a week or so, before confirming a diagnosis of hypertension.High blood pressure is called a ‘silent killer’ because it has no signs and symptoms even when it reaches extreme levels.High sodium said to be the major cause of high blood pressure. The WHO recommends a salt intake of 5 gms per day. While regular food may be prepared with the right amount of salt, it is other items like bakery products, pickles, chutneys, papad, non-alcoholic beverages, and canned food that contribute to the “extra” consumption. Avoid salt in salads and fruits. Tips to control and prevent high blood pressure o Reduce the amount of salt in your diet. Note the amount of salt present In the processed foods you eat, especially packaged foods. o Lose weight, if you are overweight or obese. Regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure and keep your weight under control. o Avoid alcohol, it can raise your blood pressure, o Stop smoking and use of tobacco. Tobacco injures the blood vessel walls and speeds up the process of hardening of the arteries. o Increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables. Get plenty of potassium, which can help prevent and control high blood pressure. o Reduce oil, fat, and excess calorie consumption. o Manage stress as much as possible. Practice healthy coping techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. o Monitor the blood pressure regularly to help control it. o Take medication for high blood pressure regularly (as advised by the doctor). Understanding High Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments High BP Symptoms High blood pressure is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it usually has no obvious symptoms until it has caused significant damage to the heart and arteries. However, some people may experience high blood pressure symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, and dizziness. These symptoms are not specific and usually occur once hypertension has reached a severe or life-threatening stage. Hypertension and Its Impact Hypertension is categorized into two types: primary (essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension. Primary hypertension develops gradually over many years and has no identifiable cause. Secondary hypertension is caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or certain medications. The effects of high blood pressure can be severe, leading to heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, heart failure, weakened blood vessels in the kidneys, and vision loss. Causes of High Blood Pressure The causes of high blood pressure can be multifactorial. Key factors include genetics, age, gender (men are more likely to develop hypertension before the age of 55, while women are more likely after 55), and lifestyle choices. Specific reasons for high blood pressure include high salt intake, lack of physical activity, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and smoking. Additionally, causes of sudden high blood pressure may be linked to acute stress, kidney disease, adrenal gland tumors, and thyroid problems. High Blood Pressure Symptoms in Women and Pregnancy Women may experience unique high blood pressure symptoms, especially during pregnancy. High blood pressure in pregnancy, also known as gestational hypertension, can lead to preeclampsia, a serious condition that can harm both the mother and the baby. Symptoms of preeclampsia include severe headaches, changes in vision, upper abdominal pain, and swelling in the hands and face. Pregnant women should monitor their blood pressure regularly and seek immediate medical attention if they notice any signs of high blood pressure. High Blood Pressure in Young Adults High blood pressure in young adults is increasingly common due to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress. Causes of high blood pressure in young adults include genetic predisposition, obesity, high sodium intake, and sedentary behavior. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term health complications. High Blood Pressure Range and Signs Blood pressure readings are measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and include two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart rests between beats). A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when readings consistently exceed 130/80 mm Hg. Signs and symptoms of high blood pressure can be subtle but may include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and fatigue. Diagnosis and Tests for High Blood Pressure Diagnosing high blood pressure, or hypertension, involves a combination of measuring blood pressure levels, assessing medical history, and conducting various tests to determine underlying causes and assess potential damage to organs. Blood Pressure Measurement The primary method for diagnosing high blood pressure is through blood pressure measurement using a sphygmomanometer. Blood pressure readings are taken in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart rests between beats). A consistent reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher indicates hypertension. Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) involves wearing a device that measures blood pressure at regular intervals over 24 hours. This method provides a comprehensive view of blood pressure fluctuations throughout the day and night, helping to rule out white-coat hypertension (elevated readings in a clinical setting but not in everyday life). Home Blood Pressure Monitoring Home blood pressure monitoring allows individuals to track their blood pressure regularly in a comfortable setting. This method can provide more accurate readings and help monitor the effectiveness of treatment plans. Medical History and Physical Examination A thorough medical history and physical examination are essential for diagnosing high blood pressure.