The normal blood pressure in an adult human is 120/80 mmHg. If your natural blood pressure is consistently above that level, you are a patient of high BP. It is also known as hypertension. About 1 in 3 adults worldwide suffer from high BP.
Having high BP largely increases the risk of heart diseases. This is because a high blood pressure exerts more pressure on your arteries and makes your heart work more than it normally does. This leads to weakening of the arteries and the heart muscles which can, in turn, cause heart attack, hemorrhage, stroke, blood clot, etc.
What Causes High BP?
There are several factors that can make you prone to getting high BP. For example:
- Genetic predisposition
- Being obese
- Advanced age
- Excessively salty diet
- Sedentary life
- Alcohol abuse
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Chronic stress
- Other chronic conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.
- Certain medications like birth control pills, decongestants, and over-the-counter pain relievers, etc.
Which Symptoms Indicate High BP?
Initially, high BP can be asymptomatic. Some people might feel a slight headache or dizziness that can come and go. But as it starts getting more advanced, you can notice the following symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Disorientation
- Vision problem
- Irregular heartbeat
- Pounding in the chest, neck, and ears.
- Difficulty in breathing
- Fatigue
- Blood in urine
If you belong to the high-risk group of people, it is wise to get quarterly checkups done rather than waiting for the symptoms to show up.
How Is High BP Diagnosed?
To be diagnosed as a patient of high BP, a person needs to get their BP checked very frequently and sustain a high level at all times. Merely having one episode of elevated blood pressure won’t make you a patient of high BP. To understand the root cause of your elevated blood pressure, the doctor may also suggest blood and urine tests along with ECG.
How Is High BP Treated?
“The treatment for high BP starts with eliminating the factors that might worsen the condition. This would include adapting to a low-salt diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, etc.,” says Dr. Sandeep Khambhampati, a Consultant Interventional Cardiologist with 10+ years of experience. In addition, medications like diuretics, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, etc. can help lower the blood pressure. Stress management and sound sleep are also important to maintain healthy BP levels. In addition, it is utmost important that you monitor your BP as regularly as your doctor suggests. If you have a peculiar lifestyle, discuss your requirements with the doctor honestly so that he can devise the best treatment plan. With the right treatment and lifestyle, you can effectively manage high BP and prevent the associated health risks like heart disease, kidney disease, eye damage, dementia, sexual dysfunction, artery anomalies, etc.