High Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Understanding High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a serious health condition affecting millions worldwide. It occurs when the force of your blood against your artery walls is too high. If left untreated, it can lead to dangerous complications such as stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and vision problems.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

In many cases, the cause of high blood pressure is unknown (primary hypertension). However, several risk factors can increase your chances of developing it, including:

• Age: The risk of high blood pressure increases with age.
• Family history: If you have a family history of high blood pressure, you are at higher risk.
• Unhealthy diet: Eating too much salt, saturated fat, and cholesterol can raise blood pressure.
• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of high blood pressure.
• Obesity: A high body mass index (BMI) increases the risk.
• Smoking: Smoking narrows blood vessels, increasing blood pressure.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can raise blood pressure.
• Stress: Prolonged stress can increase blood pressure.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms. That’s why it’s called a “silent killer.” Only when blood pressure rises sharply or reaches dangerous levels might you experience symptoms such as:

• Severe headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat

Important: Regular blood pressure checks are the best way to detect high blood pressure early, even if you have no symptoms.

Preventing High Blood Pressure

You can reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure by:

• Eating a healthy diet: Reduce salt, saturated fat, and cholesterol in your diet. Increase fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Exercising regularly: At least 30 minutes most days of the week.
• Losing weight if needed: Maintain a healthy weight.
• Limiting alcohol: Drink in moderation or not at all.
• Quitting smoking: Smoking is very harmful to cardiovascular health.
• Managing stress: Find ways to reduce stress, such as yoga or meditation.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a doctor. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.