High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition characterized by elevated pressure in the arteries. This condition is determined by the amount of blood the heart pumps and the resistance of the arteries to this flow. It affects approximately 30% of the adult population, regardless of gender.
Arterial Hypertension: What It Is
Arterial hypertension, commonly referred to as “high blood pressure,” is a condition where the pressure in the arteries exceeds normal physiological levels. It particularly affects older people as it often results from the aging process.
Although not a disease in itself, hypertension significantly increases the risk of developing other conditions. It is a crucial risk factor because it predisposes individuals to cardiovascular diseases and increases the likelihood of strokes.
There are two types of high blood pressure:
- Primary Hypertension: This type has no single identifiable cause and affects many adults, developing gradually with age
- Secondary Hypertension: This type occurs suddenly and has higher blood pressure values than primary hypertension. It can be resolved by addressing the underlying cause, such as kidney disease, heart disease, endocrine disorders, diabetes, sleep apnea, pregnancy, congenital defects in major arteries, renal artery stenosis, or certain medications
Hypertension can be further classified as systolic arterial hypertension, when only the maximum pressure has increased, and diastolic hypertension when the values of the minimum pressure are altered. When both values are higher than normal, it is defined as systo-diastolic hypertension.
Causes and Risk Factors
In most cases, the exact cause of high blood pressure cannot be determined. However, several risk factors can predispose individuals to develop hypertension::
- Non-Modifiable Factors: Family history, age, gender
- Modifiable Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a diet rich in salt or calories and a sedentary lifestyle
Emotional stress, obesity, and diabetes can also contribute to the development of high blood pressure. These are risk factors for all cardiovascular diseases but can be mitigated through a healthy lifestyle.
What Does High Blood Pressure Entail?
The body can gradually adapt to higher blood pressure values, often without showing symptoms; As a result, the increase in blood pressure might not be immediately noticeable, especially if it doesn’t occur suddenly.
The non-specific symptoms of hypertension are often underestimated or attributed to other conditions. Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Lightheadedness and dizziness
- Ringing in the ears
- Vision changes
- Nosebleeds
Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential because many individuals with hypertension are unaware of their condition. Early diagnosis is crucial for preventing related damage and cardiovascular diseases, including those that are disabling.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Often, increased blood pressure values are not accompanied by symptoms. Due to the non-specific nature of these symptoms, periodic blood pressure measurements are recommended. Once hypertension is diagnosed, additional tests may be necessary to assess any damage to the blood vessels, heart, and kidneys.
The primary therapy for managing blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular disease risk involves adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes a low-salt diet, regular physical activity, weight management, quitting smoking, and controlled alcohol consumption.
If lifestyle changes are insufficient, a doctor may prescribe medication to normalize blood pressure. This chronic therapy often needs to be maintained for many years, as discontinuing the medication can lead to adverse effects on blood pressure levels.
