Understanding hypertension: causes, symptoms, and effective management

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition caused when the force of your blood against the walls of the blood vessels is consistently too high.

Understanding hypertension is incredibly important because it often doesn't show any symptoms, which can make it difficult to detect. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension occurs when your blood pressure, the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels, is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is given as two numbers. The top number, systolic pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number, diastolic pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries between beats.

Causes and risk factors

Several factors can contribute to high blood pressure, including:

• Genetics: A family history of hypertension increases your risk.
• Age: The risk increases as you get older.
• Lifestyle factors: Lack of physical activity, a diet high in salt, excess weight, and too much alcohol can all raise your risk.
• Stress: Chronic stress may contribute to high blood pressure.
• Chronic conditions: Kidney disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol can lead to hypertension.

Symptoms of hypertension

Most people with hypertension have no signs or symptoms, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels. However, a few may experience:

• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Nosebleeds

These symptoms typically don't occur until high blood pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage.

Diagnosing hypertension

Your care team can diagnose high blood pressure and make treatment decisions based on your readings. If your doctor discovers that your blood pressure is elevated, they may request you record it at home or order further testing to rule out underlying conditions.

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Hypertension is defined as a blood pressure reading of 130/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher.

Blood pressure categories

The five blood pressure ranges as recognized by the American Heart Association are:

Normal

Blood pressure numbers less than 120/80 mm Hg are considered normal. Stick with heart-healthy habits like a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Elevated

Elevated blood pressure is when readings consistently range from 120-129 systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. People with elevated blood pressure will likely develop high blood pressure unless steps are taken to control the condition.

Hypertension stage 1

Hypertension Stage 1 is when blood pressure consistently ranges from 130 to 139 systolic or 80 to 89 mm Hg diastolic. At this stage of high blood pressure, healthcare professionals are likely to prescribe lifestyle changes. They may consider adding blood pressure medication based on your risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or ASCVD, such as heart attack or stroke.

Hypertension stage 2

Hypertension Stage 2 is when blood pressure consistently is 140/90 mm Hg or higher. At this stage of high blood pressure, healthcare professionals are likely to prescribe a combination of blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes.

Hypertensive crisis

This stage of high blood pressure requires medical attention. If your blood pressure readings suddenly exceed 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes and then test your blood pressure again. If your readings are still unusually high, you must monitor your blood pressure carefully. You can expect frequent check-ins from Cadence if you have readings this high.

Treatment and management

Managing hypertension often involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Common strategies include:

• Medications: These may include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers to help lower blood pressure.
• Dietary changes: Following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is a scientifically backed approach to reducing blood pressure.
• Regular exercise: Engaging in moderate physical activity can significantly lower blood pressure.
• Weight management: Losing weight can reduce blood pressure levels.
• Stress reduction: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help manage stress.

Conclusion

Cadence is here to help empower you to get your blood pressure under control. Understanding hypertension is the first step toward managing this silent condition. Regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and working closely with your care team can help you control your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease and other complications. Remember, taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier tomorrow.

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Any information provided on this website is intended for general educational purposes and is not intended to be medical advice. You should always consult with your own medical provider about your health and medical questions and never rely on this or any other website alone to make medical decisions. Do not delay seeking medical advice or disregard any medical advice you have received from your provider because of anything you read on the website.

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