What is Hypertension?
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. It is often called the "silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
Blood pressure is measured as two numbers: systolic (pressure when the heart beats) over diastolic (pressure when the heart rests between beats).
Blood Pressure Categories
| Category | Systolic (mmHg) | Diastolic (mmHg) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 |
| Elevated | 120 - 129 | Less than 80 |
| Stage 1 Hypertension | 130 - 139 | 80 - 89 |
| Stage 2 Hypertension | 140 or higher | 90 or higher |
| Hypertensive Crisis | Higher than 180 | Higher than 120 |
Risk Factors
Non-Modifiable
- Age (risk increases with age)
- Family history of hypertension
- Ethnicity (South Asians at higher risk)
- Chronic kidney disease
Modifiable
- High salt intake
- Obesity and lack of exercise
- Smoking and excess alcohol
- Stress and poor sleep
- Diabetes
Symptoms
Most people with hypertension have no symptoms at all. This is why regular blood pressure checks are important. In very severe cases, some may experience:
- Headaches (especially at the back of the head in the morning)
- Dizziness or blurred vision
- Nosebleeds
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or palpitations
Lifestyle Management
How to Control Your Blood Pressure
- Reduce salt intake: Limit to less than 5g (1 teaspoon) per day. Avoid processed foods, pickles, and papadam.
- Eat a healthy diet: More fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Reduce fried and fatty foods.
- Exercise regularly: At least 30 minutes of brisk walking or moderate exercise, 5 days a week.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even 5-10 kg can significantly lower blood pressure.
- Limit alcohol: If you drink, limit to no more than 1-2 standard drinks per day.
- Stop smoking: Smoking raises blood pressure and damages blood vessels.
- Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques, deep breathing, or meditation.
- Take medications as prescribed: Never stop or skip blood pressure medications without consulting your doctor.
Complications of Uncontrolled Hypertension
- Heart attack and heart failure
- Stroke (brain attack)
- Kidney damage and kidney failure
- Vision loss
- Peripheral artery disease
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Blood pressure reading above 180/120 mmHg
- Severe headache with confusion or vision changes
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body (possible stroke)
- Blood in urine
- Consistently elevated readings despite taking medications
Important: This information is for educational purposes only. If you are unsure about your symptoms or they are severe, please consult a doctor. Our doctors are available for home visits and telemedicine consultations.