Hypertension
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common medical condition where the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is represented by two numbers: systolic (the pressure when the heart beats) and diastolic (the pressure when the heart rests between beats). A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is diagnosed when readings consistently exceed 130/80 mmHg.
There are two main types of hypertension: primary (essential) hypertension, which has no identifiable cause and develops gradually over many years, and secondary hypertension, which is caused by another medical condition, such as kidney disease or hormonal disorders.
Risk factors for hypertension include age, family history, obesity, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, high salt intake, and chronic stress. Hypertension can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss if left untreated.
Management involves lifestyle modifications like diet changes, regular exercise, and stress management, as well as medication such as ACE inhibitors, diuretics, or beta-blockers, depending on the severity. Regular monitoring is important to control blood pressure and prevent complications.
