Nearly 50% of people with high blood pressure are unaware of their condition as they have never been diagnosed. High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it usually has no obvious symptoms until complications such as heart attacks, strokes, or kidney failure occur.
6/20/2023 4:20:26 PM
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common medical condition worldwide. This condition increases the pressure on the cardiovascular system, posing risks to health and potentially leading to dangerous complications. Most cases of high blood pressure are asymptomatic and are only detected incidentally during home blood pressure monitoring or routine general health check-ups. Early detection, control, and understanding of hypertension are crucial for the health of individuals, especially those at high risk.
In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, complications, and treatment of high blood pressure.
WHAT IS HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE?
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition where the blood flow pressure against the artery walls is elevated. It is a dangerous disorder that damages the heart, blood vessels, brain, eyes, kidneys, and various other chronic diseases, and it is a leading cause of premature death globally.
Here are some statistics on hypertension according to the World Health Organization (WHO):
WHY DOES THIS CONDITION OCCUR?
High blood pressure can have various causes. Some risk factors include:
Some factors that increase the risk of high blood pressure are:
SYMPTOMS
High blood pressure often does not have clear symptoms in the early stages. Some individuals may not notice any signs until the condition becomes severe. However, common symptoms of hypertension include:
Severe high blood pressure can cause symptoms such as:
However, nearly 50% of people with high blood pressure are unaware of their condition as they have never been diagnosed. High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it usually has no obvious symptoms until complications such as heart attacks, strokes, or kidney failure occur.
Therefore, everyone should regularly check their blood pressure and undergo general health check-ups, especially older adults or those at risk of high blood pressure.
COMPLICATIONS
If not properly controlled and treated, high blood pressure can lead to dangerous complications, including: