High Blood Pressure: Effects & Control

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is the condition in which the pressure of blood against the walls of the blood vessels is higher than normal. Hypertension is a chronic disease that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. It can cause complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss. The global impact of hypertension on health is significant, affecting millions of people worldwide according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Hypertension is divided into two main categories: primary (essential) and secondary. Primary hypertension develops in most cases without a specific cause, while secondary hypertension occurs due to a particular disease or condition. Kidney diseases, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications can lead to secondary hypertension.

High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it usually does not produce obvious symptoms. However, some people may experience the following signs:

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Blurred vision

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Nosebleeds

• Ringing in the ears

• Palpitations

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to have your blood pressure checked and consult a doctor. Hypertension can progress silently for years, causing irreversible damage to the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels during this period.

Many factors can contribute to the development of hypertension. The most common causes include:

• Genetic predisposition: The risk increases if there is a family history of hypertension.

• Age: As people age, blood vessels stiffen, which can raise blood pressure.

• Obesity: Excess weight forces the heart to work harder.

• Salt intake: High salt consumption can cause water retention and increase blood pressure.

• Smoking and alcohol use: These negatively affect blood vessel health.

• Stress: Prolonged stress can lead to elevated blood pressure.

• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can negatively impact blood pressure.

• Diabetes and kidney diseases: These conditions increase the risk of hypertension.

• Sleep apnea: Breathing interruptions during sleep can raise blood pressure.

• Medication use: Birth control pills, certain painkillers, and cold medications can trigger hypertension.

Hypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure. Blood pressure is expressed with two values:

• Systolic Pressure (High Blood Pressure): The pressure during heart contraction.

• Diastolic Pressure (Low Blood Pressure): The pressure when the heart relaxes.

Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. Values of 140/90 mmHg and above are considered hypertension. Hypertension can be classified into different stages:

• 120/80 - 129/89 mmHg: High normal

• 140/90 - 159/99 mmHg: Stage 1 hypertension

• 160/100 mmHg and above: Stage 2 hypertension

A single high measurement is not enough to diagnose hypertension. Measurements taken on different days should be regularly evaluated by a doctor.

The treatment of hypertension includes lifestyle changes and medication use.

Lifestyle Changes

• Reduce salt intake: Daily salt consumption should not exceed 5 grams.

• Eat a healthy diet: Diets such as the Mediterranean diet can be applied.

• Exercise regularly: At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week is recommended.

• Lose excess weight: Maintaining a normal body mass index (BMI) is advised.

• Quit smoking and alcohol: Stopping smoking is important for vascular health.

• Manage stress: Meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can be helpful.

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule: Quality sleep is important for blood pressure control.

Medication Treatment

Depending on the level of hypertension, a doctor may recommend different medications:

• Diuretics: Help remove excess water from the body.

• Beta-blockers: Reduce heart rate to balance blood pressure.

• ACE inhibitors: Lower blood pressure by widening blood vessels.

• Calcium channel blockers: Help relax the heart and blood vessels.

Medication treatment should not be used without medical supervision, as it varies according to individual health conditions.

To prevent hypertension, the following recommendations should be followed:

• Reduce daily salt intake

• Eat a healthy and balanced diet

• Exercise regularly

• Avoid smoking

• Manage or avoid stress

• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption

• Have regular blood pressure measurements

• Get sufficient and quality sleep

Conclusion

High blood pressure is a condition that can be controlled with early diagnosis and proper management. Regularly monitoring your blood pressure and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent serious complications in the long term. If you are at risk of hypertension or experience symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor. Being informed and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key to a long and healthy life while managing hypertension.