What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension is another name for high blood pressure. Every time the heart pumps, the muscular organ uses pressure to move blood through the arteries to other areas of the body. The intensity of the force used to push blood through the arteries is called blood pressure. Artery walls are made of muscle and elastic tissue. When the level of pressure is too high, doctors label this condition as hypertension or high blood pressure. Blood pressure readings are broken down into 2 measurements, including systolic and diastolic pressure. Hypertension is a health condition with serious consequences.

Detecting high blood pressure

Hypertension is not an easily recognizable disease. This health condition has no apparent symptoms, so doctors must conduct blood pressure readings to diagnose patients. A blood pressure reading is done with a special cuff that measures the systolic and diastolic numbers in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The systolic measurement is the top number that calculates blood pressure when the heart contracts. The diastolic reading is the bottom number measuring blood pressure when the heart rests. Stage 1 hypertension is diagnosed when the systolic reading is consistently 130 mmHg and up, and the diastolic measurement is 80 mmHg and above.

Can hypertension lead to other diseases?

Hypertension can cause other diseases like diabetes, vision loss, cognitive kidney disease, peripheral artery disease, and heart disease. High blood pressure also leads to heart attack, stroke, dementia, and pregnancy issues. Certain factors like age, high-sodium diet, genetics, lack of physical activity, obesity, and alcohol abuse will increase the risk of developing hypertension. Stage 2 hypertension is a systolic reading of 140 mmHg and higher and a diastolic reading of 90 mmHg and higher.

Treating Hypertension

Hypertension has no cure, but the disease is managed through different interventions like medication and lifestyle changes. Doctors encourage patients with hypertension to exercise, stop smoking, limit alcohol intake, and lose weight. A well-balanced diet, stress management techniques, and physical activity can reduce the risk of developing hypertension-related diseases.

Exercising to beat hypertension

Not only does exercise manage hypertension, but physical activity can also reduce stress levels. Chronic stress raises a person's blood pressure, so exercise combats stress by releasing mood-boosting chemicals in the body. Seniors can get physical by doing aerobics and resistance training to lose pounds and maintain a healthy weight. Get the heart rate pumping by doing aerobics exercises like walking, swimming, and dancing. Resistance training can be done with dumbbells, resistance bands, and kettlebells. People can also do push-ups, lunges, and squats to build strength and endurance.

Creating a healthy diet

Patients with hypertension should build a diet that includes skinless fish and poultry, nuts, legumes, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. People should also reduce salt intake because high sodium levels lead to water retention, which increases blood pressure. Seniors should also avoid foods with saturated fats and opt for foods packed with potassium, magnesium, calcium, and fiber.

Working with a doctor

Patients with hypertension should be under the care and supervision of a qualified physician. A physician will work with the patient to create a plan to manage hypertension and prevent the development of chronic diseases. Doctors can also help patients manage chronic diseases to prevent further complications.