Hypertension 

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury(mm hg) and has two components.

• Diastolic pressure: the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats
• systolic pressure: the pressure when the heart beats.

A normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure readings are consistently at or above 130/80 mm Hg.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

Hypertension can result from various factors, including

• Age: the risk of having hypertension increases with age.
• Genetics: A family history of hypertension can increase the risk of HPP
• Obesity: Excess weight can lead to high blood pressure.
• Diet: high intake of salt, fat and cholesterol can raise blood pressure.
• Sedentary lifestyle: lack of physical activity contributes to hypertension.
• Alcohol and tobacco use: both can damage the cardiovascular system.
• Stress: chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure.
• Medical conditions: conditions like diabetes and kidney diseases can increase risk.

SYMPTOMS

Hypertension is often the 'silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms until serious complications develop. when symptoms do occur they may include the following

• chest pain
• headache
• shortness of breath
• dizziness
• visual changes
• nosebleeds
• flushing

DANGERS OF HYPERTENSION

Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to severe health complications, including:

• Heart disease
• stroke
• vision loss
• kidney damage
• Aneurysm: increased pressure can cause blood vessels to weaken and bulge, potentially leading to a life-threatening rupture.
• Metabolic syndrome
• cognitive decline.

CONTROL AND TREATMENT

effective management of hypertension typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medications.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

1.  DIET: eat more of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein while reducing salt intake- limiting salt to less than 2,300 mg per day or even lower, can help control blood pressure. Incorporating healthy fat such as those from nuts, seeds, and fish can improve cardiovascular health.
2. EXERCISE: regular exercise can help lower blood pressure, Exercise like Aerobics, strength training is very good in reducing blood sugar levels.
3. WEIGHT MANAGEMENT: losing weight if oversized can help manage hypertension and eating a balance diet can help manage weight.
4. STRESS MANAGEMENT: Relaxing when necessary and having up to 8 hours of sleep is important in controlling HYPERTENSION
5. Limiting alcohol intake and quit smoking.

MEDICATIONS

1.  Diuretics
2. ACE inhibitors
3. Angiotensin II receptors blockers(ARBs)
4. calcium channel blockers
5. beta-blockers.

Always go for regular check-ups, home monitoring with the use of pressure monitor to track readings between doctors visit and incorporating healthy lifestyles.