High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): A Silent Killer and How to Prevent It
Did you know? In India, every third adult suffers from high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, yet half of them don’t even know they have it. This condition is called a “Silent Killer” because it can damage the heart, kidneys, and brain without showing any symptoms. In this article, we will understand what hypertension is, its causes, symptoms, treatment, and ways to prevent it.
What is Hypertension and Why is it Dangerous?
When your blood pressure consistently stays at 140/90 mmHg or higher, it is called hypertension. This puts extra pressure on your blood vessels, affecting the heart and other organs.
Hypertension is mainly of two types:
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Primary Hypertension: Develops gradually over time due to age, family history, and lifestyle factors.
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Secondary Hypertension: Caused by another medical condition such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or certain medications.
⚠️ Note: The effects of hypertension are slow but dangerous, leading to serious problems like heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.
Causes and Symptoms of Hypertension—When to Stay Alert
✅ Main Causes:
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High salt intake and excessive consumption of fast food
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Lack of physical activity
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Obesity, stress, and lack of sleep
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Smoking and alcohol consumption
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Presence of diabetes or high cholesterol
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Family history or genetic factors
Possible Symptoms:
Many times, hypertension shows no warning signs, but you should pay attention to these symptoms:
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Frequent headaches
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Fatigue, dizziness, or blurred vision
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Nosebleeds
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Chest pain or shortness of breath
The truth: Most people discover they have hypertension only when it has already become severe. This is why regular checkups are essential.
Prevention and Treatment of Hypertension: Small Changes, Big Impact
Make Dietary Changes (DASH Diet):
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Include fruits, leafy vegetables, oats, and whole grains
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Keep salt intake below 1500 mg/day
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Eat potassium-rich foods like bananas and spinach
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Reduce fried foods and avoid processed foods
Increase Physical Activity:
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Walk briskly for at least 30 minutes every day
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Practice yoga and meditation to reduce stress
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Include light strength training twice a week
Avoid Substance Use:
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Quit smoking immediately—it rapidly increases blood pressure
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Limit or completely avoid alcohol
Manage Stress:
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Practice meditation and deep breathing, and get adequate rest
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Ensure 7–8 hours of quality sleep every night
Treatment: Consult a Doctor, Don’t Self-Medicate
If lifestyle changes are not enough to control blood pressure, a doctor may prescribe medication.
Regular monitoring is very important. You can even use a home BP monitor for regular checks.
Hypertension and Cholesterol: A Double Threat
If high blood pressure is accompanied by high cholesterol, the risk of heart disease doubles. This is why checking cholesterol and blood sugar along with BP is important.
When Should You Get Tested?
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If you are above 30 years of age
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If you have a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension
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At least once a year: Check BP, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels
Don’t Ignore High BP
Although hypertension develops silently, its consequences can be life-threatening. If detected on time and managed with simple lifestyle changes, it can be kept under control.
A healthy lifestyle is the best medicine.
👉 Stay healthy, stay happy, and make every day healthy with Rozaana Health.