Hypertension

HYPERTENSION OVERVIEW

A condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. Usually hypertension is defined as blood pressure above 140/90, and is considered severe if the pressure is above 180/120. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Over time, if untreated, it can cause health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. Eating a healthier diet with less salt, exercising regularly and taking medication can help lower blood pressure. 

CAUSES

Things that increase the risk of having high blood pressure include:

• Older age
• Genetics
• Obese
• Physically inactive
• Unhealthy diets 
• Diet high in saturated fat and trans fats
• high-salt diet
• Low intake of fruits and vegetables
• High Alcohol intake 
• Consumption of tobacco 
• Family history of hypertension
• Age over 65 
• Non-modifiable risk factors include: A years and co-existing diseases such as diabetes or kidney disease.

SYMTOMS

Symptoms in hypertension go un noticed. The only way to detect hypertension is to have a health professional measure blood pressure. 

People with very high blood pressure (usually 180/120 or higher) can experience symptoms including:

• Severe headaches
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Breathing problems
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred vision or other vision changes
• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Buzzing in the ears
• Nosebleeds
• Abnormal heart rhythm

ASSOCIATED PROBLEMS

Checking your blood pressure is the best way to know if you have high blood pressure. If hypertension isn’t treated, it can cause other health conditions like kidney disease, heart disease and stroke. 

RISK FACTORS : ,

TREATMENTS