Health: Good Management Of Hypertension

WHAT IS HYPERTENSION?

Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries.

Hypertension happens when this pressure is consistently too high. Over time, the extra force strains your arteries and organs, increasing the risk of health issues.

WHAT CAUSES HYPERTENSION

Several factors can increase your risk, like:

Family history of high blood pressure
Unhealthy diet, especially high salt intake
Lack of exercise
Being overweight or obese
Smoking and excessive alcohol use
Chronic stress
-Certain medical conditions like diabetes or kidney disease
WHO IS AT RISK?

Hypertension affect anyone, but some groups are more at risk

People over 40 years old
Individuals with a family history of high blood pressure
(G)Those living with obesity or diabetes
People of certain ethnicities, like African or South Asian descent
SYMPTOMS OF HYPERTENSION

Most people with hypertension have no obvious symptoms, even when their blood pressure is dangerously high.

HOW DO YOU KNOW YOU GOT IT?

The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to measure it. A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg.

Hypertension is diagnosed when your readings are consistently:

Above 130/80 mmHg (Stage 1 Hypertension)
Above 140/90 mmHg (Stage 2 Hypertension)
Here’s the trick, it is measured on at least two different occasions, with readings taken on separate days.

This ensures the readings are not affected by temporary factors such as stress or physical activity

In rare cases, severe hypertension may cause headaches, chest pain, or vision problems.

PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF HYPERTENSION

Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and low-salt foods.

Exercise regularly, aiming for at least 30 minutes a day.

Maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake

Manage stress through activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing

Monitor your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor’s advice

WHEN ARE MEDICINES NEEDED?

In some cases, lifestyle changes aren’t enough to control blood pressure. Therefore, medications may be prescribed to help lower it.

If you discover your blood presser is elevated, contact your doctor immediately don’t rush to medicines by self medication

Hypertension is serious, but it is manageable. By making small, consistent changes to your lifestyle, you can reduce your risk and protect your health