2023-12-07 08:00:00
Hypertension, characterized by high blood pressure, affects 1.28 billion adults ages 30 to 79, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, surprisingly, 46% of them are unaware that they suffer from this condition. In Spain, according to Dr. Juan Cosin, from the Cardiology Service of the Arnau de Vilanova Hospital, Valencia, 42.6% of the population (which would be equivalent to 16.5 million people) suffers from hypertension.
What is hypertension?
Hypertension is defined when the blood pressure in the blood vessels reaches levels of 140/90 mmHg or more. It is a serious and dangerous condition that can remain asymptomatic, with the only way to detect it through regular blood pressure measurements.
Risk factors: modifiable and non-modifiable
Several factors contribute to the development of hypertension. Modifiable ones include unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. On the other hand, non-modifiable factors, such as genetics, age and the presence of other diseases, also increase the risk.
Measuring blood pressure at home provides us with valuable information.SMG
Warning symptoms: How to identify hypertension?
In many cases, hypertension has no obvious symptoms. However, at extremely high levels (180/120 or higher), alarming symptoms may arise that require immediate medical attention. These include severe headache, blurred vision, chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and other telltale signs.
Diagnosis: the only reliable way to detect it
The only reliable way to detect hypertension is through regular blood pressure measurements. At least two measurements on different days, with systolic values equal to or greater than 140 mmHg and diastolic values equal to or greater than 90 mmHg, are required to establish a diagnosis, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Treatment and prevention: changes in habits and medications
Treating hypertension involves lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, losing weight, being physically active, and stopping smoking. In more severe cases, medications may be necessary to reduce blood pressure to safe levels. Adherence to treatment and regular health care are crucial for effective control.
Healthy diets emphasize the consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. Carlos Gawronski
In addition to treatment, prevention plays a crucial role in managing hypertension. Adopting healthy habits, such as eating more fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, and reducing stress, can help prevent hypertension and reduce the risk of complications.
Serious complications of uncontrolled hypertension
Uncontrolled hypertension can have serious consequences, including heart damage, myocardial infarction, heart failure, irregular heart rhythm, and stroke. Additionally, it can cause kidney damage, leading to kidney failure.
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