“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition in which the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Over time, this can lead to damage to the arteries and organs, such as the heart, kidneys, and brain.
Risk factors for hypertension include age, family history, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, stress, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease. Some people may also have primary hypertension, which has no identifiable cause.
Symptoms of hypertension are often not noticeable, which is why it is often called the "silent killer." However, if blood pressure is very high, symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Treatment for hypertension typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes that can help to lower blood pressure include:
Medications that are commonly used to treat hypertension include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, and beta-blockers. The choice of medication will depend on the patient's overall health, blood pressure level, and other factors.
It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and follow a treatment plan as directed by a healthcare provider. This can help to prevent complications and improve overall health and quality of life.