HYPERTENSION

 

Hypertension:

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called the “silent killer” because it usually has no obvious symptoms yet causes serious damage to the heart and blood vessels over time. It is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.

What Is Hypertension?

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against artery walls. When this pressure remains consistently high, it strains the heart and damages arteries.

  • Normal: Below 120/80 mmHg

  • Elevated: 120–129/<80 mmHg

  • High (Stage 1): 130–139/80–89 mmHg

  • High (Stage 2): 140+/90+ mmHg

Effects on the Heart

  • Thickening of the heart muscle (left ventricular hypertrophy)

  • Increased risk of heart attack and stroke

  • Damage to arteries, leading to atherosclerosis

  • Heart failure due to prolonged strain

Risk Factors

  • Obesity

  • High salt intake

  • Lack of physical activity

  • Stress

  • Smoking and alcohol use

  • Family history of hypertension

Prevention and Management

  • Eat a balanced, low-salt diet

  • Exercise regularly

  • Maintain a healthy weight

  • Manage stress with relaxation techniques

  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

  • Monitor blood pressure regularly

Key Takeaway

Hypertension is manageable and preventable. Regular checkups and lifestyle changes are the best defense against this silent but dangerous condition.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

VACCINE DEVLOPMENT

BIO DIGITAL INTERFACE

BIOINFORMATICS