High Blood Pressure Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
When the blood pressure against the artery walls is continuously too high, it is referred to as high blood pressure or hypertension. In addition to putting additional strain on the heart, this can harm blood vessels, raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, renal problems, and other severe illnesses.
High Blood pressure is recorded using two numbers and is measured in millimetres 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 medication.
Types of High Blood Pressure
- Primary Hypertension
- Secondary Hypertension
- Isolated Systolic Hypertension
- White Coat Hypertension
- Masked Hypertension
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Get A Second OpinionHigh Blood Pressure Symptoms
Individuals with extremely high blood pressure may experience symptoms such as:
- Headaches: Particularly severe or persistent headaches.
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
- Nosebleeds: Unexplained or frequent nosebleeds.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling short of breath.
- Chest Pain: Pain or pressure in the chest.
- Vision Problems: Blurred vision or seeing spots.
- Fatigue: Unusual tiredness or fatigue.
- Irregular Heartbeat: Palpitations or an irregular heartbeat.
High Blood Pressure Treatment at Home
Treatment often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Here are some common treatments for high blood pressure:
Lifestyle Changes for Hypertension
- Dietary Modifications:
- Reduce Sodium Intake: Aim for less than 2,300 mg per day, or even 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.
High Blood Pressure Medications Treatment
Doctors may prescribe high blood pressure medication if lifestyle changes are insufficient to lower blood pressure. The types of best medicine for high blood pressure medications include:
- Diuretics: Help kidneys remove excess sodium and water from the body.
- Beta-Blockers: Reduce the heart's workload and relax blood vessels.
- ACE Inhibitors: Relax blood vessels by blocking chemicals that narrow them.
- ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers): Block natural chemicals that tighten blood vessels, helping them relax.
- Calcium Channel Blockers: Relax blood vessel muscles.
- Renin Inhibitors: Slow down the production of renin, an enzyme that raises blood pressure.
These high blood pressure medications help manage blood pressure effectively when needed.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare provider are 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 interact with medications.
Causes of High Blood Pressure(Hypertension)
Unknown Primary Cause: The leading cause of high blood pressure is often unknown, but several factors contribute.
- Smoking: Damages arteries and temporarily raises blood pressure.
- Overweight: Increases blood volume, putting pressure on arteries.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Leads to weight gain and higher heart rate.
- Excessive Sodium Intake: Raises blood pressure and can harm kidneys. Limit salt intake.
- 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.
- Chronic 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 Range
Blood pressure categories include normal, low, and high, each with specific values and treatments.
|
Blood Pressure Category |
Systolic/Diastolic Value (mm Hg) |
Description |
|
Low Blood Pressure |
90/60 or less |
This situation is considered low blood pressure. |
|
Healthy and Ideal |
More than 90/60 and less than 120/80 |
This condition is considered healthy and ideal. |
|
Normal Blood Pressure |
120/80 to 139/89 |
This condition is considered normal blood pressure. |
|
High Blood Pressure |
140/90 and above |
In this condition, see your doctor immediately and start taking medications. |
Diagnosis of High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- Blood pressure is commonly measured using a sphygmomanometer, which includes a stethoscope, cuff, dial, pump, and valve. It's 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 underlying 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.
When to see a Doctor?
- High blood pressure often doesn't present symptoms, but sudden severe headaches or nosebleeds should prompt a blood pressure check.
- Severe symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or visual difficulties require urgent medical attention, potentially indicating a hypertensive crisis.
- Medications for hypertension may cause dizziness; if persistent or affecting daily activities, consult a doctor.
Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- Unhealthy Diet: Excessive sodium (salt) and insufficient potassium intake can raise blood pressure.
- Lack of Exercise: Sedentary lifestyle leads to weight gain and higher blood pressure.
- Overweight or Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of hypertension and other health issues.
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking too much 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 Intake: Regular consumption of caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure.
- Sleep Apnea: Conditions like sleep apnea, more common in overweight individuals, can raise blood pressure.
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Book an AppointmentPrevention of High Blood Pressure
- Eat Healthy: Limit sodium and increase potassium-rich foods to help manage blood pressure.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and lower blood pressure.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight reduces hypertension risk.
- Limit Alcohol: Avoid excessive drinking to prevent a rise in blood pressure and weight gain.
- No Smoking: Quitting smoking reduces blood pressure and the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Cut Back on Caffeine: Reducing caffeine intake can help avoid temporary spikes in blood pressure.
- Lose Weight: Reducing excess weight can improve blood pressure and overall health.
Home Remedies for High Blood Pressure
- Garlic: Eating raw garlic or taking garlic supplements can help lower blood pressure.
- Hibiscus Tea: Drinking hibiscus tea regularly may help reduce blood pressure.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix a tablespoon with water and drink it to help balance blood pressure.
- Beetroot Juice: Drinking fresh beetroot juice can lower blood pressure due to its nitrate content.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Consuming foods rich in omega-3s, like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity like brisk walking or swimming can lower blood pressure.
- Reduce Sugar Intake: Cutting back on sugary foods helps manage high blood pressure.
- Cinnamon: Adding cinnamon to your diet may help reduce blood pressure levels.
- Reduce Stress: Relaxation practices like deep breathing or yoga can help control high blood pressure.
