High Blood Pressure: Silent Symptoms & Risks

High Blood pressure is recorded using two numbers and is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg):

• Systolic pressure: The pressure that results from the heart pumping blood and beating.
• Diastolic Pressure: The pressure that exists between heartbeats.

The typical range for a normal blood pressure reading is 120/80 mmHg. A measurement that is continuously higher than 130/80 mmHg is considered high blood pressure (HTN).

It is important to monitor and manage high blood pressure to reduce the risk of serious health complications. It can be managed with regular check-ups and proper treatments.

Types of High Blood Pressure

• Primary hypertension: The most common type, develops slowly over many years without a known cause.
• Secondary hypertension: Caused by some condition such as kidney disease, thyroid problems or some medications. It appears suddenly and causes higher blood pressure than primary hypertension.
• Isolated systolic hypertension: This type is common in older people, where only the systolic pressure is high.
• White coat hypertension: Blood pressure spikes in medical conditions due to anxiety, but remains normal at home.

Causes of High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

The main cause of high blood pressure is not known to anyone, but there are some factors that may contribute to the development of this condition.

• Smoking: Damages arteries and temporarily raises blood pressure.
• Overweight: Increases blood volume, putting pressure on arteries.
• Lack of Physical Activity: This leads to weight gain and a higher heart rate.
• Excessive Sodium: Raises blood pressure and can harm kidneys.
• Alcohol Consumption: Regular drinking raises blood pressure and affects heart rate.
• Stress: Stress increases blood pressure; manage with meditation or exercise.
• Family History: Genetic predisposition to high blood pressure.
• Kidney Disease: Damages kidneys, impairing waste removal and increasing pressure.
• Adrenal and Thyroid Disorders: Hormonal imbalances from these conditions raise blood pressure.
• Sleep Apnea: Disturbs normal blood pressure regulation during sleep.

High Blood Pressure Symptoms

People with extremely high blood pressure may experience symptoms such as:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nosebleeds
• Shortness of Breath
• Chest Pain
• Vision Problems
• Fatigue
• Irregular Heartbeat

Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure

• Unhealthy Diet: Excessive sodium (salt) and insufficient potassium consumption can raise blood pressure.
• Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle leads to weight gain and higher blood pressure.
• Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of hypertension and other health issues.
• Alcohol Consumption: Drinking excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure and lead to weight gain.
• Smoking: Smoking increases blood pressure and the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• High Caffeine: Regular consumption of caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure.
• Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea is more common in overweight people and can raise blood pressure.

When To See A Doctor?

High blood pressure often does not present symptoms, but sudden, severe headaches or nosebleeds require a blood pressure check.

Severe symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath or visual difficulties require urgent medical treatment, indicating a hypertensive crisis.

Medications for hypertension may cause dizziness. If it persists or affects your daily activities, consult a doctor.

Diagnosis of High Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is commonly measured using a sphygmomanometer, which includes a stethoscope, cuff, dial, pump and valve. It is recorded as two numbers: systolic and diastolic pressure.

Systolic blood pressure is the maximum pressure during a heartbeat when the heart sends blood. Diastolic blood pressure is the lowest pressure between heartbeats when the heart is filled with blood.

Blood tests are essential for diagnosing secondary hypertension caused by some health issues. These tests aid in identifying the condition's cause and severity.

• Electrolyte levels
• Blood glucose
• Thyroid function tests
• Kidney function tests: blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels
• Urine tests: Urinalysis can detect underlying causes like diabetes, kidney failure, or drug use contributing to high blood pressure.

Imaging Tests: Imaging tests aid in diagnosing hypertension and related complications by assessing heart and kidney function.

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG assesses heart rhythm, which can be affected by anomalies or long-term changes due to hypertension.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound evaluates kidneys and blood vessels, which is helpful if your doctor suspects blood flow issues, such as vessel narrowing.
• CT scan or MRI: If a tumor is suspected as the cause of high blood pressure, imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs may be needed to assess the kidneys or adrenal glands.

Treatment and Management of High Blood Pressure

Doctors may prescribe high blood pressure medication if lifestyle changes are insufficient to lower blood pressure. The best medicine for high blood pressure includes:

• Diuretics
• Beta-Blockers
• ACE Inhibitors
• Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
• Calcium Channel Blockers
• Renin Inhibitors

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regular monitoring and follow-up with your doctor is essential to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment plan. Blood pressure should be regularly checked, and adjustments to the treatment plan should be made as necessary.

Some people may also explore complementary therapies, such as:

• Acupuncture
• Herbal Supplements: Always consult a doctor before using any supplements, as they can affect your health.

High Blood Pressure Treatment at Home

Treatment often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medicines. Here are some common treatments for high blood pressure:

Lifestyle Changes for Hypertension

Dietary Modifications:

• Reduce Your Sodium Intake: Aim for less than 2,300 mg per day, or lower if advised by a doctor.
• DASH Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
• Limit Alcohol: Men should have no more than two drinks per day, and women should limit to one drink per day.

Exercise:

• Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking.

Weight Management:

• Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight if overweight can help reduce blood pressure.

Quit Smoking:

• Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking improves overall heart health and helps lower blood pressure.

Stress Management:

• Reduce Stress: Techniques such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress levels.

Prevention of High Blood Pressure

• Eat Healthy
• Exercise Regularly
• Healthy Weight
• Limit Alcohol
• No Smoking
• Caffeine
• Lose Weight

Home Remedies for High Blood Pressure

• Garlic
• Hibiscus Tea
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Beetroot Juice
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids
• Exercise
• Sugar consumption
• Cinnamon
• Reduce Stress