Hypertension is higher than normal blood pressure and can contribute to heart disease, strokes, more severe effects of COVID-19, and other serious conditions.
It’s crucial to consult a professional if you suspect you’re at risk. Measure your blood pressure with a medical professional, at a pharmacy, or using a home blood pressure monitor. Small reductions in blood pressure can help your heart and lower the risk of a heart attack.
It’s estimated that there are 1.28 billion adults aged 30 to 79 with hypertension globally, with the majority (about two-thirds) residing in low- and middle-income countries.
Hypertension is when the blood pressure in our blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). It’s a common issue that can be severe if left untreated.
Sometimes, it doesn’t cause symptoms, and the only way to detect it is by measuring blood pressure.
The risk of hypertension can increase in these cases:- Advanced age - Genetic causes - Overweight or obesity - Lack of physical activity - Excessive salt intake - Excessive alcohol consumption
Most people with hypertension don’t show symptoms, although very high blood pressure can cause headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, and other symptoms.
People with very high blood pressure (180/120 or higher) may experience these symptoms:
– Intense headache
– Chest pain
– Dizziness
– Difficulty breathing
– Nausea Vomiting
– Blurred vision or changes in vision
– Anxiety
– Confusion
– Ringing in the ears
– Nosebleeds
– Changes in heart rhythm
Take care of yourself and your health!
More information and resources:
https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy
/Documents/8380/345-273-BloodPressHm-
en-L.pdf?uid=6500add729487
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/high-blood
-pressure#:~:text=Your%20blood%20
pressure%20is%20considered,80%20
mm%20Hg%20or%20higher.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-
conditions/high-blood-pressure/symptoms-
causes/syc-20373410
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/
high-blood-pressure/the-facts-about-high-
blood-pressure/what-is-high-blood-pressure
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high
-blood-pressure/why-high-blood-pressure-
is-a-silent-killer
