Uncontrolled Hypertension

 The Risks and Consequences of Uncontrolled Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a medical condition where the pressure within your arteries rises and exceeds the normal range. This can be a sign of various underlying health issues, of which you’ll need to be aware. If not attended to, hypertension increases your risks for strokes, heart attacks, kidney problems, decreased vision, and organ failure.

 

Fortunately, there’s a way to treat hypertension before it takes a toll on your health. It’s a matter of understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments that are available. Let’s take a look at what hypertension is, what causes it, and how to manage it.

 

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is a medical condition where the pressure of your blood against the walls of your arteries, veins, and capillaries rises above the normal range. This pressure is known as systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number) blood pressure, and it typically should be between 90/60 to 120/80 mmHg. If your blood pressure is higher, you may be at risk for developing hypertension.

When your blood pressure stays at levels above 140/90 for a prolonged period of time, you can be diagnosed with hypertension. Depending on how far above the normal range your blood pressure is, you’ll be classified as having one of three blood pressure levels: prehypertension, stage 1 hypertension, or stage 2 hypertension. Prehypertension is the lowest of the three levels and requires lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, while stage 2 hypertension requires more intensive and extensive medical care.

 

What Causes Hypertension?

Although hypertension has many potential causes, there are certain factors that put you at greater risk. While doctors usually take a detailed medical history and exam to better understand the root cause of a patient’s hypertension, some common causes can include:

• Aging: As you age, your arteries can become stiffer and less elastic, meaning that your blood pressure increases

• Weight: Obesity is one of the major risk factors for hypertension, as the extra weight can lead to the constriction of your arteries and the production of excess hormones

• Smoking: The presence of nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can constrict your arteries and increase your blood pressure

• Alcohol: Consuming alcohol in excess can put extra strain on your heart and increase blood pressure levels

• Diet: Eating an unhealthy diet full of low-nutrient foods can contribute to hypertension

• Genetics: Certain genetic or inherited conditions can predispose some people to hypertension

• Medication: Certain prescription drugs can have hypertension as a side effect

 

What are the Symptoms of Hypertension?

Hypertension doesn’t always cause symptoms, which is why it’s so important to have regular medical checkups to monitor your blood pressure. However, if your blood pressure is severely high and left untreated for a prolonged period of time, you may experience some of the symptoms and other conditions associated with it, such as:

•  Headaches - People with high blood pressure may experience headaches, which can range from mild to severe. The headache may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as dizziness or nausea.

• Vision Changes - Hypertension can cause blurred or double vision, as well as blind spots.

• Dizziness and Lightheadedness - Hypertension may cause episodes of lightheadedness or dizziness. It can occur without a headache as well.

• Nausea - Some people with high blood pressure may experience nausea, which can be accompanied by a headache or dizziness.

•  Chest Pain - Chest pain may be a symptom of hypertension. It is usually related to chest discomfort.

•  Shortness of Breath - Hypertension can lead to difficulty breathing, particularly during physical activities.

•  Fatigue - Hypertension can lead to chronic fatigue or exhaustion, even with plenty of rest.

• Flushing - Hypertension can also cause episodes of flushing or feeling uncomfortably hot.

• Difficulty Sleeping - High blood pressure can lead to difficulty sleeping or insomnia.

• Cold, Clammy Skin - Hypertension may cause cold and clammy skin, which can be accompanied by a pale complexion.

 

How is Hypertension Treated?

The treatment of hypertension depends on your individual case. You and your doctor will discuss the underlying causes of your hypertension as well as your lifestyle choices. Your doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatments if necessary:

• Medication: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help lower your blood pressure, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers.

• Lifestyle changes: Making healthier lifestyle choices, such as cutting out smoking and drinking alcohol, reducing your salt intake, and participating in regular physical activity can help lower your blood pressure.

• Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be required to open up blocked arteries or replace weakened or damaged valves.

 

How Can Hypertension Be Prevented?

If you are at risk for hypertension, it’s important to take steps to prevent it. Taking some simple steps can reduce your risk of developing it:

• Eat a healthy diet: It’s important to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and limit your intake of processed and high-salt foods.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight can increase your risk of developing hypertension.

• Exercise regularly: Participating in regular physical activity can help keep your blood pressure down.

• Quit smoking: Smoking constricts your arteries and increases your blood pressure.

• Limit your alcohol intake: Too much alcohol can strain your heart and heighten your blood pressure.

• Monitor your blood pressure regularly: Checking your blood pressure regularly is one of the best ways to detect hypertension early and lower your risk of experiencing any of its symptoms.

 

Conclusion

Hypertension is a common medical condition that can be managed with the right treatments and lifestyle changes. Knowing the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention methods for hypertension can go a long way towards keeping your blood pressure in check and keeping you healthy. If you are concerned about your blood pressure, speak to your doctor to determine the right course of action for your individual case.