Hypertension: Drastic Symptoms and Causes

 

 

     Some people may be surprised to read the topic "Hypertension," as it is a very common condition affecting 30-45% of the population. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications such as stroke, heart failure, arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, kidney disease, and even other symptoms like pain. However, some individuals with hypertension may not experience any symptoms. If left unchecked over time, it can lead to life-threatening consequences. Therefore, we would like to present treatment options that may be helpful for patients and their families dealing with this condition.

 

What is Hypertension?

     Hypertension is a condition where the pressure of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently high enough to cause damage to organs, particularly the heart, over the long term. Blood pressure is influenced by two main factors:

 

• The volume of blood pumped by the heart
• The resistance to blood flow (determined by the width of the blood vessels)

 

 

     If the volume of blood pumped by the heart increases, the blood pressure rises. Likewise, if the blood vessels narrow, this creates more resistance to blood flow, similar to water flowing through pipes. If the pipes are clogged, the pressure increases. Similarly, blocked or narrowed blood vessels can lead to high blood pressure.

 

 

 

 

Symptoms of Hypertension

Some individuals with hypertension may not experience any symptoms for many years, but when symptoms do appear, they may include:

 

• Severe headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Shortness of breath

 

 

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These symptoms usually occur when blood pressure becomes dangerously high, and in some cases, can be life-threatening.

 

 

Causes of Hypertension

Hypertension can occur in two main forms:

 

• Primary Hypertension – This is high blood pressure that develops naturally, often as a result of aging
• Secondary Hypertension – This type is caused by another underlying condition or as a side effect of medications or substances. Examples include:
  • Sleep apnea
  • Kidney problems
  • Adrenal gland tumors
  • Thyroid issues
  • Certain congenital vascular abnormalities

 

Other factors that can contribute to secondary hypertension include the use of substances like:

• Birth control pills
• Cold medications
• Laxatives
• Pain relievers
• Cocaine or methamphetamines
• Excessive alcohol consumption

 

 

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While high blood pressure can be managed, it cannot be completely cured, so prevention and management are key.

 

 

Risk Factors for Hypertension

Several factors can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure:

 

• Age Blood pressure increases with age, especially in men.
• Genetics If your parents have hypertension, you're at higher risk.
• Overweight or Obesity Excess weight is associated with a higher risk of developing high blood pressure.
• Smoking Smoking raises blood pressure immediately and damages blood vessel walls.
• Sodium, Potassium, Vitamin D High sodium levels cause the body to retain water, which can increase blood pressure. Maintaining appropriate levels of potassium and Vitamin D is also important.
• Alcohol Heavy, long-term alcohol consumption can cause heart problems. Men should limit alcohol intake to two drinks per day, and women to one drink per day.

 

Complications of Hypertension

If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to severe complications:

 

• Coronary Artery Disease High blood pressure can cause the heart’s arteries to thicken and stiffen, potentially leading to heart attacks or heart failure.
• Aneurysms Weakened blood vessels can cause bulging (aneurysms), which may rupture.
• Heart Failure The heart has to work harder to pump blood when blood pressure is high, causing the heart muscle to thicken. Over time, this can lead to heart failure.
• Kidney Damage High blood pressure can cause damage to the kidneys and affect their function.
• Metabolic Syndrome A group of conditions that occur together, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, and low HDL (good) cholesterol, increasing the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
• Cognitive Impairment Long-term high blood pressure can affect brain function, leading to difficulties with memory and learning.

 

What Tests Should Be Done for High Blood Pressure?

     According to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines, it is essential to check for internal organ damage caused by high blood pressure even before symptoms appear. This helps doctors choose the appropriate medication for treatment, focusing on the patient's safety.

 

Testing may include:

• Echocardiogram or ECG to check for heart enlargement
• Kidney function tests, including blood tests and urine tests to check for protein leakage
• ABI (Ankle-Brachial Index) to assess arterial stiffness
• Screening for other conditions associated with high blood pressure, such as diabetes and high cholesterol.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Measuring Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is measured with a "blood pressure cuff" (sphygmomanometer), and is typically recorded as two numbers:

 

• Systolic Pressure The pressure in your arteries when your heart contracts.
• Diastolic Pressure The pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

 

Blood pressure readings are categorized as follows:

• Hypertension for the elderly: 150/90 mmHg
• Hypertension for younger individuals: 140/90 mmHg
• Hypertension for those with chronic conditions: 140/90 mmHg

 

Treatment of Hypertension

The goal of treatment is to control blood pressure and prevent complications. There are two main approaches to managing hypertension:

 

Lifestyle Changes

• Reduce salt intake
• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Maintain a healthy weight

 

Medications

     Medications help to reduce complications from high blood pressure. Each patient responds differently to medication, and doctors will tailor treatment based on individual needs.

 

 

 

 

 

How Long Should Treatment Continue? Is Medication Required Long-Term?

    The goal is to manage blood pressure within normal ranges, which may differ based on the patient’s condition. Generally, a target of 140/90 mmHg is considered optimal, though for older adults, the target may be adjusted to 150/90 mmHg. If blood pressure is controlled—whether by medication or lifestyle changes—patients generally experience lower mortality rates. This means patients live longer and are less likely to suffer from complications. Therefore, hypertension requires ongoing management, and once blood pressure is controlled, the doctor may reduce the dosage or discontinue medication if necessary.

 

 

 

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Managing hypertension—an often symptomless, yet serious condition—is achievable if we pay attention to our health. By taking medication regularly, adopting healthy habits, and seeing your doctor for check-ups, you can enjoy a long, healthy life without being a burden to your family. Keep taking care of yourself!

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