What is Hypertension? Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Hypertension is an important health problem that affects millions of people around the world and can lead to serious health problems in the long term. Also known as high blood pressure, it is a condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries constantly rises above the normal level. When left uncontrolled, hypertension can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, stroke and other serious complications. In this article, we will discuss what hypertension is, its symptoms, causes and treatment methods.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is a condition in which the force exerted by blood on artery walls is consistently high. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood pumped by the heart and the resistance the blood encounters as it passes through the vessels. If the arteries are narrowed or hardened, the heart has to work harder, causing blood pressure to rise.

A normal blood pressure level is generally considered to be 120/80 mmHg. The first number (120) indicates systolic pressure and refers to the moment when the heart contracts and pumps blood. The second number (80) indicates the diastolic pressure and represents the moment when the heart relaxes. Hypertension is generally defined as values ​​of 140/90 mmHg and above.

Causes of Hypertension

The exact cause of hypertension may not always be determined, but genetic factors and lifestyle play important roles in the development of hypertension. Hypertension is divided into two main categories:

Primary (Essential) Hypertension

Primary hypertension is the most common type of hypertension and develops slowly over time. It usually occurs without any specific reason. Lifestyle factors and genetic predisposition play a role in the development of this type of hypertension. Smoking, unhealthy diet, inactivity and being overweight increase the risk of primary hypertension.

Secondary Hypertension

Secondary hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that occurs as a result of another health problem. This type of hypertension can be more sudden and serious. Conditions that cause secondary hypertension include:

• kidney diseases
• Hormone disorders (for example, thyroid problems)
• Adrenal gland tumors
• sleep apnea
• Some medications (birth control pills, painkillers, decongestants)

Symptoms of Hypertension

Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because most people don’t realize they have the condition. Hypertension can progress for years without symptoms, and during this time the vessels and heart may be damaged. However, when high blood pressure reaches serious levels, certain symptoms may occur.

Common Hypertension Symptoms:

• Severe Headaches: When blood pressure is extremely high, a person may experience intense headaches.
• Shortness of breath: High blood pressure can cause fluid accumulation in the lungs, causing shortness of breath.
• Nose Bleeds: Although rare, nosebleeds may be a sign of high blood pressure in some people.
• Dizziness and Fainting: Dizziness and fainting may occur as a result of insufficient blood flow to the brain.
• Chest Pain: Chest pain may be felt due to pressure on the heart.
• Heart Palpitations: High blood pressure can affect heart rhythm and cause palpitations.
• Visual Impairments: High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes, which can lead to vision problems.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor immediately. If hypertension is not diagnosed and treated early, it can cause serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.

Risk Factors for Hypertension

The risk of developing hypertension depends on a number of lifestyle and environmental factors. Here are the main risk factors that contribute to hypertension:

• Age: As we get older, blood vessels become stiffer, which can cause blood pressure to rise.
• Family History: Individuals with a family history of hypertension are at greater risk of developing high blood pressure.
• Overweight: Being overweight causes the heart to work harder and blood pressure to rise.
• Salt Consumption: Consuming high amounts of salt increases blood pressure by causing fluid accumulation in the body.
• Alcohol and Cigarettes: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking negatively affect vascular health and increase the risk of hypertension.
• Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle can accelerate the development of hypertension.
• Stress: Chronic stress is one of the factors that increase blood pressure.

Treatment Methods of Hypertension

Hypertension can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication when necessary. Here are the methods commonly used in the treatment of hypertension:

Lifestyle Changes

Some lifestyle changes are very effective in controlling blood pressure and protecting heart health:

• Balanced diet: A low-sodium diet may help lower blood pressure. Additionally, a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and healthy fats reduces the risk of hypertension.
• Regular Exercise: Doing at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise a week can be effective in lowering blood pressure. Activities such as walking, swimming and cycling may be preferred.
• Reducing Salt Consumption: Keeping daily salt intake below 5-6 grams is one of the most important steps in controlling blood pressure.
• Stress Management: Techniques such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises can control blood pressure by reducing stress levels.
• Quitting Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are the main reasons that increase blood pressure. Staying away from these harmful habits reduces the risk of hypertension.

Drug Treatment

When lifestyle changes are not enough, doctors may use medication to control hypertension. Medicines commonly used to treat hypertension include:

• Diuretics (Diuretics): It helps reduce blood pressure by removing excess fluid from the body.
• Beta Blocker: It lowers blood pressure by slowing down the heart rate.
• ACE Inhibitors: It is a type of medicine that lowers blood pressure by dilating the vessels.
• Calcium Channel Blockers: It reduces blood pressure by allowing the vessels to relax.
• Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs): It reduces blood pressure by preventing the narrowing of the vessels.

Doctors determine the most appropriate drug treatment according to the patient’s condition and needs and monitor blood pressure regularly.

Prevention of Hypertension

Steps to prevent hypertension start with improving lifestyle habits. Changes such as healthy eating, regular exercise and stress management play a big role in reducing the risk of hypertension. Additionally, possible risks can be diagnosed early by having regular blood pressure measurements.

Conclusion

Hypertension is a disease that can cause serious health problems if not diagnosed and treated early. However, it can be controlled with lifestyle changes and, when necessary, medication. Monitoring blood pressure regularly and following doctor’s recommendations are the most important steps in combating hypertension. Remember, protecting your heart health is the key to a healthy life!