Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Causes, Symptoms, Risks & Management

Hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because it may not cause noticeable symptoms for years - yet it significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

At Aarogyaa Bharat, we explain hypertension clearly so you can understand it early and manage it effectively.

What Is Normal vs High Blood Pressure?

 Blood pressure is written as systolic/diastolic (e.g., 120/80 mmHg).

Persistent readings above normally indicate hypertension.

How Hypertension Affects the Body

When blood pressure stays high:

• Arteries become stiff and narrow
• Heart muscle thickens and weakens
• Blood flow to organs reduces

This can damage:

• Heart (heart attack, heart failure)
• Brain (stroke, memory problems)
• Kidneys (chronic kidney disease)
• Eyes (vision loss)

Types of Hypertension

Primary (Essential) Hypertension

• Most common type
• Develops gradually over years
• Linked to lifestyle and genetics

Secondary Hypertension

• Caused by another condition
• Appears suddenly
• Often more severe

Common causes include kidney disease, hormonal disorders, and certain medications.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Hypertension risk increases with:

• High salt intake
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Smoking and alcohol
• Stress
• Family history
• Aging

Many people develop hypertension due to multiple combined factors.

Symptoms of Hypertension

Most people with hypertension feel completely normal.
When symptoms appear, they may include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Blurred vision

Symptoms usually appear only when BP is dangerously high.

How Hypertension Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis involves:

• Multiple BP readings on different days
• Proper cuff size and positioning
• Home or ambulatory BP monitoring (if needed)

A single high reading is not enough to diagnose hypertension.

Managing and Controlling Hypertension

Lifestyle Changes

• Reduce salt intake
• Maintain healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Manage stress

Medications (if prescribed)

• ACE inhibitors
• Beta blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Diuretics

Treatment is individualized based on patient risk.

Why Regular BP Monitoring Matters

Regular monitoring helps:

• Detect hypertension early
• Track treatment effectiveness
• Prevent complications

Home BP monitoring is strongly recommended for long-term control.

How Aarogyaa Bharat Supports Blood Pressure Care

At Aarogyaa Bharat, we provide:

• Reliable blood pressure monitors
• Correct cuff sizes
• Home-care medical equipment
• Trusted health education

We believe early awareness saves lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can hypertension be cured?
It cannot always be cured, but it can be well controlled.

Q2. Is hypertension hereditary?
Yes, genetics play a role, but lifestyle matters greatly.

Q3. Can young people have hypertension?
Yes - especially with obesity, stress, or poor diet.

Conclusion

Hypertension may be silent, but its effects are powerful. Understanding blood pressure, monitoring it regularly, and making healthy choices can dramatically reduce long-term risks.

With the right knowledge and tools, high blood pressure is manageable.

For trusted healthcare guidance and quality medical products, rely on AarogyaaBharat.com