HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, COMPLICATIONS, AND TREATMENT

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):

• From 1990 to the present, the number of people aged 30-79 with high blood pressure worldwide has increased from 650 million to 1.28 billion.
• Approximately 580 million people (41% women, 51% men) have undiagnosed high blood pressure.
• Around 720 million people (53% women, 62% men) have untreated high blood pressure.
• Only about 42% of high blood pressure cases are diagnosed and treated.
• Less than 1/4 of women and 1/5 of men with high blood pressure have it under control (effective treatment).

WHY DOES THIS CONDITION OCCUR?

High blood pressure can have various causes. Some risk factors include:

• Acute or chronic kidney disease
• Narrowing of the renal arteries
• Upper thoracic tumor
• Conn's syndrome
• Cushing's syndrome
• Thyroid gland disorders, parathyroid disorders, adrenal gland disorders
• Certain medications
• Narrowing of the main artery in the abdomen
• Takayasu's arteritis
• Pregnancy-induced hypertension
• Sleep apnea
• Mental health disorders

Some factors that increase the risk of high blood pressure are:

• Age over 65: The risk of high blood pressure increases with age.
• Genetic factors: If you have family members with hypertension, your chances of having high blood pressure are higher.
• Unhealthy diet: Consuming high-sodium, high-fat, and low-fiber diets can impact blood pressure.
• Lifestyle habits: Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, and psychological stress can increase the risk of high blood pressure.

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:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Fatigue and shortness of breath
• Chest pain and irregular heartbeat
• Mood changes and difficulty concentrating
• Changes in vision and blurred vision

Severe high blood pressure can cause symptoms such as:

• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion
• Palpitations
• Chest pain
• Tremors

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:

• Heart disease and stroke: Prolonged high pressure on the blood vessels and vital organs in the body can cause damage and blockages, leading to cardiovascular issues and strokes.
• Kidney disease: High blood pressure damages the blood vessels in the kidneys, causing kidney failure and chronic kidney disease.
• Vision problems: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to conditions such as cataracts and red eyes.