Introduction
In today’s fast-paced and stressful world, “high blood pressure” or “high blood pressure” is becoming a common but dangerous disease. Millions of people around the world suffer from this disease, and unfortunately, many people are unaware of its existence. In this article, we will explain in detail the definition, causes, symptoms, effects, diagnosis, treatment, home remedies, and prevention methods of high blood pressure.
What is high blood pressure?
High blood pressure or hypertension is a condition in which the blood pressure on the walls of the arteries becomes higher than normal. This increased blood pressure forces the heart to work harder, which in the long run can affect the entire body, including the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.
What should be the normal blood pressure?
- Normal: 80/120 mmHg
- Prehypertension: 89/120 – 89/139
- High blood pressure (Stage 1): 90/140 – 99/159
- High blood pressure (Stage 2): 100/160 or higher
Types of high blood pressure
- Primary (Essential) hypertension
- Mostly occurs in adults.
- It has no specific cause and develops slowly.
- Secondary (Secondary) hypertension
- It occurs as a result of another disease, such as kidney problems, hormonal changes, or side effects of medications.
- It develops suddenly and rapidly.
Causes of high blood pressure
- Unhealthy lifestyle: high-fat diet, lack of exercise, drugs (alcohol, cigarettes)
- Mental stress: constant tension and anxiety
- Family history: If a parent or close relative has high blood pressure, the risk increases
- Obesity: Being overweight increases the pressure on the heart
- Aging: The chances of blood pressure increasing with age
- Kidney and hormonal diseases
- Excessive salt consumption
Symptoms
Most of the time, there are no obvious symptoms of high blood pressure, which is why it is called the “silent killer”. However, some people may experience the following symptoms:
- Headache (especially in the morning)
- Dizziness or fainting
- Blurred or double vision
- Chest pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Trouble breathing
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nosebleeds (in severe cases)
Effects on Body
- Effect on Heart: Blockage of blood vessels, heart attack, heart failure
- Effect on Brain: Stroke, memory impairment, depression
- Effect on Kidneys: Kidney failure, urinary problems
- Effect on Eyes: Vision impairment or complete blindness
- Effect on Arteries: Stiffness of blood vessels, risk of rupture
Diagnosis
The following methods are used to confirm high blood pressure:
- Blood pressure machine (Sphygmomanometer): Measured by wearing a band on the arm
- Holter monitoring: 24 hours Blood pressure monitoring for
- Urine and blood tests: To check the condition of the kidneys and hormones
- ECG, Echo or MRI: To check the condition of the heart and brain
Treatment
- Drug treatment:
- ACE inhibitors (such as Enalapril)
- Beta blockers (such as Atenolol)
- Diuretics (diuretic drugs)
- Calcium channel blockers (such as Amlodipine)
- Lifestyle changes:
- Reduce salt intake
- Daily walk or exercise
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Lose weight
- Mindfulness, yoga and meditation
- Dietary changes:
- Fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, pulses
- Low-fat diet
- Low calories and high water intake
Home Remedies
- Garlic: Daily consumption of garlic lowers blood pressure
- Celery water: It is useful to soak celery overnight and strain and drink it in the morning
- Linseed Seeds: Helps in controlling blood pressure
- Black sesame seeds: Good for heart health
- Ginger and honey: One spoonful a day is beneficial
- Pomegranate and banana: They are high in potassium, which controls blood pressure
- Cinnamon: Can be used in tea
Prevention Methods
- Walk for at least 30 minutes daily
- Avoid stress and adopt a positive mindset
- Limit salt and sugar intake
- Get enough sleep (7 to 8 hours)
- Get an annual or semi-annual check-up
- Keep a blood pressure monitor at home
- Avoid smoking and intoxicants
Conclusion
High blood pressure is a silent disease that can prove fatal over time, but it can be completely controlled with timely diagnosis and treatment. If you pay attention to your diet, lifestyle, and mental state, you can prevent this disease and even control it if you have it.
Protect your heart, get your blood pressure checked, and live a healthy life.
