5 Things You Should Know About Hypertension

Hypertension is a chronic medical condition characterized by the prolonged elevation of blood pressure in the arteries. Some publications use Hypertension and blood pressure interchangeably.

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it throughout the body. The standard measurement for blood pressure is millimetres of mercury (mmHg). It is expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure (when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (when the heart is at rest between beats). Medical practitioners consider blood pressure around 120/80 mm Hg as normal.

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What are the four (4) stages of Hypertension?

The four stages of Hypertension, as defined by the American Heart Association, are as follows:

1. Normal Blood Pressure: This stage is characterized by blood pressure readings below 120/80 mm Hg.
2. Elevated Blood Pressure: In this stage, blood pressure between 120/80mmHg to 129/89 mmHg is considered elevated and at risk of developing stage 1 hypertension.
3. Stage 1 Hypertension: Stage 1 hypertension is diagnosed when the blood pressure is between 130/80 and 139/89 mmHg.
4. Stage 2 Hypertension: This is the most severe stage, with systolic blood pressure at 140 mm Hg or higher and diastolic blood pressure at 90 mm Hg or higher.

Ten (10) common causes and risk factors for Hypertension

 

Genetics: If you have family members who suffer from Hypertension, you have an elevated risk of Hypertension.

Diet: A diet high in salt (sodium), saturated and trans fats, and low potassium can contribute to high blood pressure.

Obesity: Excess body weight strains the heart and blood vessels.

Physical inactivity: A dormant life with little to no physical activity can put someone at risk of Hypertension.

Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can raise blood pressure.

Excessive alcohol consumption: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, disruption of kidney function, oxidative stress, and other factors that contribute to elevated blood pressure.

Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to Hypertension through various mechanisms, including the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, release of stress hormones, inflammation, oxidative stress, unhealthy coping behaviours, sleep disturbances, increased sodium retention, and genetic predisposition. The physiological responses to stress, along with unhealthy lifestyle choices adopted under stress, can collectively contribute to elevated blood pressure.

Age: As people get older, the risk of Hypertension increases.

Chronic kidney disease: Kidney problems can affect blood pressure regulation.

Certain medications and health conditions: Some medications and medical conditions can cause or exacerbate Hypertension.

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Can Hypertension be cured?

While Hypertension cannot be “cured” in the traditional sense, it can be managed effectively through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication.

Lifestyle changes may include adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, reducing sodium intake, managing stress, and quitting smoking. Medications, when prescribed by a healthcare professional, can also help control blood pressure.

What are other conditions caused by Hypertension?

Many conditions can occur as a result of Hypertension.

• Stroke
• Kidney Disease
• Heart disease
• Eye problems
• Aneurysms

Heart Disease

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, puts one at risk for the development and progression of heart disease. The continuous elevated blood pressure against the arteries’ walls can cause several adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. This elevated pressure can lead to various heart-related issues. Here’s how Hypertension contributes to heart disease:

• Arterial Damage: High blood pressure can damage the inner lining of arteries (endothelium) over time. This damage may lead to the formation of plaques, consisting of cholesterol, fats, and other substances, on the arterial walls.
• Atherosclerosis: When the arteries become narrow and not as elastic as they should be, the person has atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart muscle. The presence of plaques in the arteries can lead to atherosclerosis.
• Increased workload on the heart: Hypertension requires the heart to pump blood against higher resistance. This increased workload on the heart muscle can lead to the thickening of the heart’s left ventricle (left ventricular hypertrophy).
• Coronary Artery Disease: Atherosclerosis can affect the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. If these arteries become significantly narrowed or blocked, it can reduce blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain (angina) or a heart attack (myocardial infarction).
• Heart Failure: The combination of increased workload, thickening of the heart muscle, and reduced blood supply can eventually lead to heart.

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Stroke

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for stroke. A stroke occurs when brain cells die due to insufficient blood flow. Hypertension can contribute to the development of stroke through several mechanisms:

• Arterial Blood Vessel Rupture: Persistent high blood pressure can weaken the walls of arteries, making them more prone to rupture. If a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, it can cause bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). The increased pressure within the arteries can lead to the rupture of small blood vessels in the brain.
• Blood Clots: Hypertension increases the risk of blood clot formation within the arteries. These blood clots can block blood vessels in the brain, leading to an ischemic stroke. Ischemic strokes are more common than hemorrhagic strokes and result from a lack of blood supply to a part of the brain.
• Microvascular Changes: Hypertension can cause changes in the brain’s smaller blood vessels (microvascular changes). This can contribute to reduced blood flow to some regions of the brain, increasing the risk of stroke.
• Aneurysm Formation: Hypertension can contribute to the formation and rupture of weakened, bulging areas in the walls of blood vessels (aneurysm). If an aneurysm in the brain ruptures, it can lead to a hemorrhagic stroke.
• Increased Workload on the Heart: Hypertension forces the heart to pump blood with greater force, which can contribute to various cardiovascular changes. These changes, including the thickening of the heart muscle, can affect overall cardiovascular health and increase the risk of stroke.

Hypertension occurs with other stroke-related risk factors like Diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol, further amplifying the overall risk.

Regular monitoring of blood pressure and seeking medical advice for appropriate management are essential components of stroke prevention. If someone experiences symptoms of stroke, such as sudden numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, or severe headache, it is a medical emergency, and immediate attention should be sought.

Kidney Disease

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The kidneys regulate blood pressure by controlling the body’s balance of fluids and salts. However, when blood pressure remains consistently high, it can have detrimental effects on the kidneys, leading to various mechanisms that contribute to the development and progression of kidney disease:

• Damage to Blood Vessels: Hypertension can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys. The increased pressure within these vessels can lead to structural changes and impair the kidney’s ability to filter blood effectively.
• Reduced Blood Flow to the Kidneys: High blood pressure can decrease blood flow to the kidneys. The kidneys rely on an adequate blood supply to function correctly, and reduced blood flow can contribute to kidney damage over time.
• Glomerular Damage: The glomeruli are tiny structures within the kidneys that filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. Hypertension can damage these glomeruli, leading to a condition known as glomerulosclerosis. As a result, the kidneys may become less efficient at filtering blood.
• Albuminuria: Persistent high blood pressure can cause leakage of the protein albumin into the urine, a condition known as albuminuria. Increased albumin levels in the urine are an early sign of kidney damage.
• Renal Artery Stenosis: Hypertension can contribute to the narrowing of the renal arteries, a condition called renal artery stenosis. This narrowing reduces blood flow to the kidneys, impacting their function.
• Activation of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): Chronic high blood pressure can lead to overactivation of the RAAS. This hormonal system plays a role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. Overactivation of the RAAS can contribute to inflammation and fibrosis in the kidneys.
• Formation of Kidney Cysts: Hypertension is associated with the development of cysts in the kidneys. These cysts can interfere with normal kidney function and aid the progression of kidney disease.
• Accelerated Aging of the Kidneys: Chronic exposure to high blood pressure can accelerate the ageing process of the kidneys, leading to premature deterioration of kidney function.

Hypertension and kidney disease are parts of a vicious cycle. Hypertension can cause Kidney disease, and kidney disease can cause Hypertension. To prevent or manage kidney disease for patients with Hypertension, regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function, along with medical supervision, is essential.

Eye Problems

Hypertension can significantly affect the eyes and vision due to the increased pressure in the optical blood vessels. Here are some ways in which Hypertension can cause eye issues:

• Hypertensive Retinopathy: Chronic Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the retina. This condition is known as hypertensive retinopathy. Symptoms do not appear during the early stages. However, vision changes occur as it progresses.
• Retinal Blood Vessel Changes: Hypertension can cause narrowing, thickening, or even ruptures of the small blood vessels in the retina. These changes can affect blood flow to the retina, leading to vision problems.
• Retinal Hemorrhages: Weakened blood vessels in the retina can rupture, causing bleeding (haemorrhages). Retinal haemorrhages may result in spots or floaters in the field of vision.
• Optic Nerve Damage: Elevated blood pressure can affect the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. Damage to the optic nerve can lead to hypertensive optic neuropathy or glaucoma, potentially causing vision loss.
• Fluid Accumulation in the Macula: Chronic Hypertension can contribute to fluid accumulation in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. This condition, macular oedema, can result in distorted or blurred vision.
• Vision Changes: Hypertension can lead to changes in vision, such as blurred vision, difficulty focusing, or vision loss.
• Retinal Detachment: Hypertension may contribute to the development of retinal detachment, where the retina pulls away from the underlying layers of the eye. This can cause sudden vision loss.

People with Hypertension should undergo regular eye check-ups to monitor for signs of hypertensive retinopathy and other eye conditions. Take necessary steps and work with specialists like ophthalmologists to ensure optimal eye health in the context of hypertension management. If these issues are detected early, they can prevent severe eye complications related to Hypertension.

Aneurysms

An aneurysm is an abnormal, localized bulge or swelling in the wall of a blood vessel due to weakened blood vessels. This bulge can occur in arteries or veins and is typically caused by weakening the vessel wall.

Aneurysms can develop in various body parts but most commonly occur in the aorta. Aneurysms can be life-threatening if they rupture. Prolonged Hypertension can contribute to the formation, growth, and rupture of aneurysms through various mechanisms:

• Increased Stress on Arterial Walls: Hypertension places increased stress and pressure on the walls of arteries throughout the body. This constant pressure can weaken the arterial walls, making them more susceptible to developing aneurysms.
• Atherosclerosis: Hypertension is often associated with atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances on the inner walls of arteries. Atherosclerosis can contribute to the weakening of arterial walls and the development of aneurysms.
• Weakening of Arterial Walls: The constant force of blood against the arterial walls can lead to structural changes in the walls, making them more prone to dilation and forming an aneurysm.
• Impact on Connective Tissue: High blood pressure can affect the connective tissue in the walls of arteries. This connective tissue, including collagen and elastin, provides strength and elasticity to the arterial walls. When this tissue is compromised due to Hypertension, it can contribute to the formation of aneurysms.
• Inflammatory Processes: Chronic inflammation associated with Hypertension can contribute to the weakening of arterial walls and the development of aneurysms. Inflammatory cells can infiltrate the arterial walls and contribute to the degradation of the structural components.
• Genetic Predisposition: There may be a genetic component to the development of aneurysms, and individuals with a family history of aneurysms may be at an increased risk. Hypertension can exacerbate this risk by putting additional stress on the arterial walls.
• Location-Specific Vulnerability: Certain arteries, such as the aorta (the main artery carrying blood from the heart), are more prone to developing aneurysms. High blood pressure can increase the vulnerability of these arteries to aneurysm formation.

It’s important to note that while Hypertension is a significant risk factor for aneurysms, not everyone with high blood pressure will develop an aneurysm. Aneurysms can occur in various arteries throughout the body, and their rupture can have severe and potentially life-threatening consequences.

How to Manage Hypertension

Managing Hypertension (high blood pressure) often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Working closely with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan is important. Here are several strategies for managing Hypertension:

Lifestyle Modifications:

Healthy Diet: Adopt the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. Patients can also reduce sodium intake. 2,300 mg of sodium or levels as low as 1500mg per day is ideal for some people. Limit processed and high-sodium foods. Here is some help with planning your diet based on your income.

Regular Physical Activity: Engage in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, for at least 150 minutes per week or vigorous-intensity exercise for at least 75 minutes per week. Include strength training exercises at least two days per week.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Losing even a small amount of weight can have a significant impact on blood pressure.

Limit Alcohol Intake: Limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels (up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men).

Quit Smoking: Smoking raises blood pressure and damages blood vessels. Quitting smoking is crucial for overall cardiovascular health.

Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or other relaxation exercises. Identify and address sources of stress in your life and eliminate the ones that can be eliminated.

Regular Monitoring:

Home Blood Pressure Monitoring:

Regularly monitor blood pressure at home, especially if recommended by your healthcare provider.

Keep a record of readings to share with your healthcare team.

Regular Medical Check-ups:

Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor blood pressure and assess overall cardiovascular health.

Medication for Hypertension

Sometimes, lifestyle changes may not be sufficient, and medications may be prescribed. Common classes of antihypertensive medications include:

Diuretics: Increase urine production, reducing fluid volume and blood pressure.

ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors): Relax blood vessels by blocking the production of angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels.

ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers): Similar to ACE inhibitors, they block the effects of angiotensin II.

Calcium Channel Blockers: Relax blood vessels by preventing calcium from entering cells.

Beta-Blockers: Reduce heart rate and the force of heart contractions, lowering blood pressure.

It’s crucial to follow the treatment plan prescribed by healthcare professionals and communicate any concerns or challenges faced during the management process. When consistently practised, lifestyle changes can significantly impact blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health. Always consult with healthcare providers before making significant changes to your treatment plan.

Conclusion

Regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, and appropriate medical treatment can help reduce the risk of Hypertension-associated complications. Working with a healthcare provider to manage and control high blood pressure is important.