Understanding Hypertension: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks

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Having high blood pressure is known as hypertension. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 1.28 billion adults worldwide have hypertension. Amongst those adults, only 42% of them are diagnosed. As well as treated. Thus making hypertension a major cause of premature death worldwide. Due to this hypertension is often referred to as the “silent killer.” This condition can develop over the years. With little to no symptoms. This is why knowing the causes and risks is key for early prevention and management. In this blog, you will learn about the risks, symptoms, and management. As noted by WHO and the Mayo Clinic. 

What is Hypertension?

Your blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Then recorded with two numbers. The first number is called the systolic pressure. Which represents the pressure in your blood vessels. When your heart beats. The second number is the diastolic number. This number represents a different pressure. This pressure is the vessels when your heart rests. Specifically between beats. A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is diagnosed when readings steadily go over 130/80 mmHg.

Primary Hypertension

Hypertension can be classified into two types. The first type is called primary hypertension. This type has no identifiable cause. It develops gradually over time. Factors of primary hypertension include the following:

  • Genetics: A family history of hypertension can add to your risk.
  • Age: Your risk of this disease gets higher with age.
  • Lifestyle: If you have an unhealthy lifestyle your chances go up. This includes a poor diet and lack of exercise.

Secondary Hypertension

This type is caused by an underlying condition. It often can appear suddenly. Causes of this hypertension include the following:

  • Kidney Disease: Having damaged kidneys can lead to higher blood pressure.
  • Adrenal Gland Tumors: These can cause the glands to make extra hormones. Which leads to higher blood pressure.
  • Thyroid Issues: Having overactive or underactive thyroid glands can elevate your blood pressure.
  • Some Medications: Drugs like birth control pills and decongestants. Along with some over-the-counter pain relievers can add to hypertension. 

Symptoms of Hypertension

Often hypertension is asymptomatic. Meaning if you have high blood pressure you won’t notice any irregular symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur they can include the following:

  • Headaches
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nosebleeds

It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. This is why it is important to regularly monitor your blood pressure. That way you can detect hypertension early.

Risks Connected with Hypertension

If left untreated this disease can lead to severe health problems. The following are some of the risks you are vulnerable to with hypertension:

  • Heart Disease: High blood pressure can cause your arteries to thicken. Along with hardening. This leads to heart disease. As well as heart attacks and heart failure.
  • Stroke: Hypertension can make your blood vessels weak in your brain. This increases your risk of having a stroke.
  • Kidney Damage: Your kidneys rely on healthy blood vessels. That way they can work properly. High blood pressure can damage these vessels. This leads to kidney failure.
  • Vision Loss: Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in your eyes. This leads to vision loss.
  • Aneurysm: Hypertension can cause your blood vessels to weaken. As well as bulge. This forms an aneurysm. This can rupture and be life-threatening.

Prevention and Management 

If you want to prevent and manage hypertension you need to make lifestyle changes. Here are some tips you can add to your daily life to lower your risk:

  • Eat a healthy diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Limit your alcohol intake
  • Avoid tobacco products
  • Avoid stress

 

Visit Clinicas 

If you are concerned about your blood pressure and need guidance regular check-ups with your Primary Care provider are vital. That way you can monitor. As well as manage your blood pressure. Visit Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. today and see your Primary Care Provider. Clinicas has experienced healthcare professionals who are here to give you tailored care. They are ready to support you. In addition to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy blood pressure. Take proactive steps to protect your health with Clinicas.