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Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is too high.
The exact causes of hypertension are not well understood, but several factors are believed to play a role, including:
Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to hypertension.
Age: As people age, their risk of developing hypertension increases.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of hypertension.
Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of hypertension.
Smoking: Smoking can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of hypertension.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can increase blood pressure.
Stress: Chronic stress can increase blood pressure.
Certain medications: Some medications, such as birth control pills and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can increase blood pressure.
Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as sleep apnea, diabetes, and kidney disease, can increase the risk of hypertension.
Treatment for hypertension includes lifestyle changes and medications. Lifestyle changes that can help lower blood pressure include:
Eating a healthy diet, low in salt, saturated fat and added sugar.
Exercising regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity on most days of the week.
Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke.
Limiting alcohol consumption: Men should not drink more than 2 drinks per day, women should not drink more than 1 drink per day.
Managing stress: Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help manage stress.
Medications that may be prescribed to lower blood pressure include:
Diuretics: These medications help the body get rid of excess water and salt, which can lower blood pressure.
ACE inhibitors: These medications help relax blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure.
Beta blockers: These medications slow the heart rate and reduce the force of the heart's contractions, which can lower blood pressure.
Calcium channel blockers: These medications relax the blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure.
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs): These medications help relax the blood vessels and reduce the amount of water retained in the body, which can lower blood pressure.
It is important to keep hypertension under control, as uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious health problems. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider and monitoring of blood pressure at home can help individuals manage their hypertension and reduce their risk of complications.