Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of blood against the walls of your arteries remains consistently elevated. Over time, this added pressure can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. Doctor using sphygmomanometer to check for abnormal blood pressure
Quick Facts
- Often has no noticeable symptoms
- A leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke
- Can develop gradually over time
- Frequently linked to lifestyle and genetic factors
- Early management can reduce long-term complications
Symptoms
Hypertension usually does not cause symptoms. In more severe or uncontrolled cases, some people may experience:
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
Because symptoms are often absent, routine blood pressure checks are the most reliable way to detect hypertension.
Causes
Hypertension can develop from a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and medical factors. In many cases, there is no single identifiable cause.
Common contributing factors include:
- Diet high in sodium or processed foods
- Lack of physical activity
- Chronic stress
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Underlying conditions such as kidney disease
Risk Factors
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Are over age 40
- Are overweight or obese
- Have diabetes or high cholesterol
- Smoke or use tobacco
- Have a family history of hypertension
Treatments
Treatment focuses on lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of complications.
In many cases, lifestyle changes are the first step. This may include improving diet, increasing physical activity, reducing sodium intake, and managing stress.
If lifestyle changes are not enough, medications may be prescribed to help control blood pressure. These are often used long-term and may be adjusted over time based on your response.
Managing related conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol is also an important part of treatment.
When to Seek Care
You should have your blood pressure checked regularly, even if you feel well. Seek care if readings are consistently elevated or if you have risk factors such as diabetes or heart disease.
