Hypertension:
Definition, Causes, Sign & Symptoms and Treatment
Hypertension,
also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition in which the force of
blood against the arterial walls is consistently elevated. Blood pressure is
measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded as two numbers,
systolic and diastolic, with the systolic pressure representing the highest
pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, and the diastolic pressure
representing the lowest pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.
Normal blood pressure is considered to be less than 120/80 mmHg, while hypertension is typically diagnosed when blood pressure readings consistently reach 140/90 mmHg or higher.
There are many causes that
can contribute to the increases the hypertension, including:
Genetics:
Hypertension can run in families and is often caused by a combination of
genetic and environmental factors.
Lifestyle
factors: Unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, smoking, alcohol
consumption, and stress can all contribute to hypertension.
Medical
conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, sleep apnea,
and adrenal gland disorders, can cause hypertension.
Medications:
Some prescription drugs, such as birth control pills and decongestants, can
raise blood pressure.
In many cases,
hypertension does not cause any noticeable symptoms, making it a “silent
killer.” However, some people with high blood pressure may experience:
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Shortness of
breath
Chest pain
Blurred vision
The American Heart Association (AHA) provides guidelines
for the diagnosis and management of hypertension. The current guidelines, which
were updated in 2017, define hypertension as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of
130 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of 80 mmHg or higher,
based on an average of at least two properly measured readings on separate
occasions.
The AHA recommends that all adults have their blood
pressure measured at least once every two years, and more frequently for those who
have been diagnosed with hypertension or who have other risk factors for heart
disease.
For individuals with high blood pressure, the AHA
recommends lifestyle modifications as the first line of treatment. These
modifications include:
Adopting a healthy diet that is low in salt and rich in
fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.
Maintaining a healthy weight.
Engaging in regular physical activity.
Limiting alcohol consumption.
Quitting smoking.
Reducing stress through relaxation techniques or stress
management strategies.
In addition to lifestyle modifications, the AHA also
recommends the use of medication for individuals with high blood pressure who
are unable to achieve their blood pressure goals through lifestyle changes
alone. Commonly prescribed medications for hypertension include:
Thiazide diuretics
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
Calcium channel blockers
Beta blockers
Aldosterone antagonists
It's important to note that the choice of medication, as
well as the dosing, will depend on individual patient factors, such as age,
comorbid conditions, and other risk factors.
The AHA guidelines also emphasize the importance of regular
monitoring of blood pressure levels and the need for ongoing communication
between patients and their healthcare providers to ensure the most effective
management of hypertension.
Summary
of AHA Guidelines, AHA guideline for hypertension emphasize
the importance of lifestyle modifications, regular monitoring, and the
appropriate use of medication to control and prevent high blood pressure.
In conclusion,
hypertension is a serious medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and
treatment. Regular monitoring of blood pressure levels and lifestyle changes
can help prevent and control hypertension. If you have any concerns about your
blood pressure, be sure to speak with your doctor to determine the best course
of action.
Diabetes Specialist
MBBS, MSc (Diabetes & Endocrinology)
CCD-BMJ-A K U-RCP (London)
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