Hypertension in a nutshell

Hypertension in a nutshell

Blood pressure is expressed as two components, with a larger top number (systolic pressure) and a smaller bottom number (diastolic pressure). These readings are measured in millimeters of mercury. Systolic pressure reflects the contraction of the heart as blood is pushed out of the heart. The diastolic measurement reflects the pressure during the heart's resting phase, when its chambers fill with blood in preparation for the next contraction. Normal blood pressure depends on age and other variables, but is usually considered high if it is above 140/90 for long periods of time.

Hypertension is an increase in systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure. There are two types: primary (essential) and secondary. The cause of primary hypertension is unknown. Heredity likely predisposes people to high blood pressure, but the condition is usually attributed to a complex of physiological, genetic and emotional factors. Approximately 95% of all high blood pressure is diagnosed as essential hypertension. Secondary hypertension is associated with conditions such as kidney disease, pregnancy toxemia, adrenal tumors, or ovarian tumors. Blood pressure usually returns to normal once the underlying disease is treated.

Hypertension affects approximately 15% of the adult population in the United States. If left untreated, it can cause severe and irreversible damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, eyes and blood vessels. It can even prove fatal by causing strokes, heart attacks or kidney failure. High blood pressure is a particularly difficult medical problem because people often have no symptoms and may not even know they have the disease.

It is imperative that high blood pressure receives medical treatment. The person with high blood pressure can be treated with different types of antihypertensive medications. One type, called a beta-blocker, reduces the heart's contractility and blood output. A diuretic may be given to remove some of the sodium and water from the body, thereby reducing overall blood volume. Sympathetic nerve inhibitors prevent the arteries from narrowing. Vasodilators reduce tension in blood vessel walls and allow them to expand. Newer types of medications inhibit the body's production of angiotensin, a chemical that causes arteries to narrow. Calcium antagonists can help relax blood vessels and lower heart rate. Salt restriction is usually prescribed in addition to medication; Diet changes can be just as important as taking medications. Medications used to treat high blood pressure can be expensive and cause unpleasant side effects such as lethargy, weakness, sexual impotence, depression, dry mouth, and difficulty sleeping. However, the long-term problems that result from high blood pressure are much worse than the side effects of medications.

Many people use relaxation techniques, including biofeedback training and meditation, in conjunction with their blood pressure medications and salt restrictions. Weight loss can help bring blood pressure back to normal; Increased physical exercise can help lower blood pressure, and alcohol consumption should be limited because drinking more than two ounces daily increases blood pressure in some people. Lifestyle changes and the practice of relaxation methods are important adjuncts to medication. They can help reduce the required dosage of medications, and in some cases, medications can be stopped completely. This must always be monitored by a doctor as high blood pressure often has no symptoms. Ongoing medical monitoring is required for appropriate treatment of this dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition.

Research has shown that people who attend church regularly tend to have lower levels of high blood pressure than the general population. Regular churchgoers may have lower levels of anxiety and anger, both of which activate the nervous system and increase blood pressure.

Because high blood pressure causes no noticeable symptoms, it has been called the silent killer. It is extremely important to have blood pressure checked at least once a year and more frequently if high readings are ever obtained. If high blood pressure is diagnosed, the effects of this condition will be minimized if you work closely with a doctor and follow the doctor's treatment instructions. If high blood pressure is detected and treated early, people with high blood pressure can live a long and productive life.

Inspired by K. C. Brownstone