Hypertension
Overview
Hypertension is a chronic medical condition, known as the "silent killer," where consistently high blood pressure on the arterial walls progressively damages the heart, brain, and kidneys. Since it often occurs without noticeable symptoms until a serious incident (such as a stroke or heart attack), early detection through regular measurement and long-term control via lifestyle changes and appropriate medication therapy are vital for preventing fatal complications.Symptoms
- High blood pressure
- Morning headache at the back of the head
- Ringing in the ears and heart palpitations
Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common chronic condition where the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high.
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic (upper value – pressure during a heartbeat) and diastolic (lower value – pressure between heartbeats). Hypertension is defined when the values are 140/90 mmHg or higher, or when the patient is already taking medication to control blood pressure. Long-term uncontrolled hypertension damages blood vessels and vital organs.
Types and Causes
In most cases (about 90-95%), the cause is primary (essential) hypertension, meaning there is no specific, clear cause. It develops gradually over the years and is associated with lifestyle and genetic predisposition. Risk factors include being overweight, an unhealthy diet (high salt intake), lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress. Secondary hypertension is less common and is caused by another underlying condition, such as kidney disease, thyroid or adrenal gland issues, or taking certain medications.
Symptoms and Consequences
Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it typically progresses without any symptoms for years. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or nosebleedsusually occur only when pressure reaches very high levels (hypertensive crisis) or when complications have already developed. Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a major risk factor for serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular incidents. It can lead to heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney damage, and vision problems.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnosis is easily established by measuring blood pressure. Usually, several measurements over different days are needed to confirm the diagnosis. A 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring may also be used.
Treatment aims at maintaining blood pressure within target ranges (usually below 140/90 mmHg, or lower for diabetes and kidney disease) and involves two main steps:
- Lifestyle changes: Reducing salt intake, healthy eating (rich in fruits and vegetables), maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and quitting smoking.
- Medication treatment: Various groups of medications are used, such as ACE inhibitors, diuretics, calcium channel blockers, or beta-blockers, often in combination, to achieve effective and stable control. Treatment is lifelong and requires regular monitoring.
Synonyms: Hypertensive disease, Arterial hypertension, Essential hypertension
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