Defining High Blood Pressure, its symptoms & how to deal with it

HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)

Hypertension is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high.

It is a serious medical condition that significantly increases the risks of heart, brain, kidney, and other diseases.

According to World Health Organization, Blood pressure is written as two numbers. The first (systolic) number represents the pressure in blood vessels when the heart contracts or beats. The second (diastolic) number represents the pressure in the vessels when the heart rests between beats.

A normal blood pressure level is 120/80 mmHg and no matter your age, you can take steps
each day to keep your blood pressure in a healthy range.

Causes of Hypertension

There are common factors that can lead to high blood pressure which include: 

  • A diet high in salt, fat, and/or cholesterol.
  • Chronic conditions such as kidney and hormone problems, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
  • Family history, especially if your parents or other close relatives have high blood pressure.

Hypertension stages

  • Normal: systolic less than 120 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.
  • Elevated: systolic between 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.
  • Stage 1: systolic between 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic between 80-89 mm Hg.
  • Stage 2: systolic at least 140 mm Hg or diastolic at least 90 mm Hg.

Possible symptoms of Hypertension

  • Blurry or double vision
  • Lightheadedness or Fainting.
  • Fatigue.
  • Headache.
  • Heart palpitations.
  • Nosebleeds.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Nausea and vomiting.

Management of Hypertension

  • Eat healthy foods (A heart-healthy diet)
  • Decrease the salt in your diet
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Increase physical activity
  • Limit alcohol intake and avoid smoking
  • Manage or avoid stress
  • Monitor your blood pressure at home