Understanding Hypertension: Key Facts and Management Tips for Better Health

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic condition affecting millions of people worldwide. In South Korea alone, over 12 million people suffer from this condition, making it a significant health concern. This post will explain the causes, symptoms, and treatment of hypertension, along with practical advice for managing blood pressure effectively.

What is Hypertension? 

Hypertension is a condition where the force of the blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. This can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and stroke if left untreated. It is classified into two main types: primary (essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension.

• Primary Hypertension: This is the most common form, where high blood pressure develops without a specific cause. It is influenced by lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and genetics.

• Secondary Hypertension: This type is caused by other underlying health conditions, such as kidney disease or hormonal imbalances.

Key Numbers to Know

Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number). Normal blood pressure is defined as below 120/80 mm Hg.

• High Blood Pressure: If either the systolic or diastolic number is 140/90 mm Hg or higher, you are diagnosed with hypertension.

  
  
  

• Prehypertension: A systolic reading between 130-139 mm Hg or a diastolic reading between 80-89 mm Hg suggests you're at risk for high blood pressure.

Causes of Hypertension

Hypertension can result from a variety of factors, including:

1. Age: As you age, the risk of developing hypertension increases. Over 50% of people aged 60 and older are affected.

2. Diet: Excessive salt intake can elevate blood pressure. It's recommended to limit salt consumption to 6 grams per day.

   
   
   

3. Obesity: Carrying excess weight, especially around the waist, increases the likelihood of developing hypertension.

4. Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to high blood pressure.

5. Genetics: A family history of hypertension can make you more susceptible.

Symptoms of Hypertension

Most people with high blood pressure don't experience symptoms, which is why it is often called a "silent killer." However, if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications like stroke, heart disease, and kidney damage. Regular check-ups are essential to catch hypertension early, even if you're not experiencing symptoms.

Hypertension Complications

When hypertension is not well-managed, it can lead to several severe health issues, including:

• Heart Disease: High blood pressure strains the heart and blood vessels, leading to conditions like coronary artery disease. 

  
  
  

• Stroke: Hypertension can damage blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of stroke.

• Kidney Damage: Chronic high blood pressure can damage the kidneys, leading to kidney disease.

• Heart Failure: Over time, untreated hypertension can weaken the heart, causing heart failure.

Treatment Options for Hypertension

The goal of hypertension treatment is to lower blood pressure to safe levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Here's how it can be managed:

1. Lifestyle Changes

• Diet: Reducing salt intake, eating more fruits and vegetables, and avoiding excessive alcohol can help lower blood pressure.

• Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce blood pressure. Aim for 30 minutes of aerobic exercise most days of the week.

  
  
  
  
  

• Weight Loss: Losing weight can have a significant impact on lowering blood pressure. For every kilogram of weight lost, blood pressure may decrease by 1 mm Hg.

• Stress Management: Chronic stress contributes to hypertension. Practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can help manage stress levels.

2. Medication

• In many cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough to manage hypertension. Doctors may prescribe medication to help control blood pressure. These can include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers.

• It's important to take medication as prescribed and not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor.

3. Monitoring Blood Pressure

• Regular monitoring is crucial, especially if you have been diagnosed with hypertension. This can help ensure that treatment is working effectively and adjust medications if necessary.

• Home Blood Pressure Monitoring: If you use a home blood pressure monitor, remember that readings at home are usually slightly lower than those taken in a doctor's office. A reading of 130/85 mm Hg or higher at home warrants a visit to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Conclusion

Managing hypertension is critical to maintaining your overall health. Regular blood pressure checks, lifestyle changes, and, when necessary, medications can help keep your blood pressure within a healthy range and prevent long-term complications. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your healthcare provider about the best plan for you.

By understanding hypertension and taking proactive steps to manage it, you can significantly reduce the risk of serious health complications and improve your quality of life.